ABOUT allDAY

allDAY is the official TODAY blog, your virtual window to Studio 1A and the people who make America's favorite morning show come alive. Whether it's exchanging views with the anchors and contributors or going behind the scenes with the producers, editors, camera people and more, we'll bring you the buzz here at 30 Rock, and we hope you will make this a regular part of your online routine. We want this to be a conversation, so please respond with your comments and questions directly to the blog, and we'll do our best to post what you have to say.



Views from the mountain trail

Posted: Monday, November 17, 2008 12:10 PM by Sarika Dani
Filed Under:

From Ann Curry, NBC News

Ann Curry checked in today to give a status report on her trek up Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania – and offered some photos to help illustrate her journey. “Climbing the hardest route up Kilimanjaro during the rainy season has been a real challenge for our news team,” she admitted.











Video: Ann gives an update on her Tanzanian trek



MAIN PAGE

Email this EMAIL THIS

Comments

It would be great if more information, as well as the name of the organization, which was trying to raise money for the Masai school (mentioned in Ann's piece). Simply referring to this problem does nothing for the Masai children who attended this school.  Please provide more details.  Thank you.

S. Bray, Scarsdale, NY (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 8:40 AM)

trying to find the link to contribute $ to the school that is in need of water pipes. I can not imagine children wanting to learn and better their future and having that taken away.  This will be our families Christmas gift.
Please give me information for link.

Nancy Matthews Summerfield, NC (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 8:42 AM)

Ann -

You are a Rock Star!  I hope you can make it to the top.   I love the bit that you did on the local school that may be closing due to lack of water in the area. Please make sure that there is more information on the website so we can possibly help the school.   Good luck and be safe.

Hugs from Georgia!

Debbie Showalter, Alpharetta, GA (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 8:56 AM)

Dear Mrs Curry: The climate change that is effecting Mt.Kilimanjaro is it Global Warming or Global Dimming? Because the same effect is going to distroy the Tiebeten people also who depend on Mt.Everest11And please Mrs.Curry take care of yourself I know you are the same age I am and I would not attemt. Such a feet as you are doing it would most surly kill me.So please take it slow and take care I would surly miss your smile.

Robert Davis Monroe Wisconsin (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 9:02 AM)

I agree with Jim.  Aren't you taking Diamox.  It really helps.  I trekked in the Himalayas last year, and took Diamox every night.  No headaches..but the lack of oxygen sure did sap my energy and unfortunately my appetite.

You're doing great!  Hang in there.  One step at a time.  

Jane, Delray Beach, FL (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 9:03 AM)

Ann, Congratulations and good luck. I pity NBC for trying to convince us that what Matt in sunny,warm Berize, Meredith in warm Sydney, and Al in Iceland/all staying in 5 star hotels/ is as dangerous or as difficult as what Ann has to do. I wish that they at least would pay her something comparable to Matt and Meredith for all her dangerous assignments.

George S. Morristown, NJ (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 9:22 AM)

Ann, I am always inspired by your choices and courage. I know your father is watching over you and proud. As for the comments by  Alistair Paterson, please don't let someone else's negativity put even the slightest dark spot on a bright and shining moment in your life. I'm sure she feels strongly, even though she isn't on YOUR trip, however,the world needs more positive feedback, and much less negativity. Keep smiling and thank you for being such and inspiration to us all.

Paula O'Malley, Emerald Isle, North Carolina. (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 9:43 AM)

Ann,

How did you guys decide were you were going? Did you draw straws or was this a life long dream? You are doing a great job. My hat is off to you. What a challenge.You go girl. I hope you get a good xmas bonus.

Liz Walsh St. Louis,Mo. (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 9:46 AM)

I REALLY WORRY ABOUT ANN SHE SEEMS TO GET THE HARDEST ASSIGNMENTS AND THE MOST DANGEROUS.    GOOD LUCK ANN AND COME BACK HOME SAFE

ARLENE HOLIDAY (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 9:55 AM)

Ann:
Your coverage is amazing and a tribute to your personal courage. My daughter and I did the summit last month and we had many of the same porters that are taking care of you and your crew. Please say hi to your main guide Ben from Chelsea and I. Ben knows her as the queen of Kili. Best of luck making it to the top!

Don Holzworth, Chapel Hill, NC (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 10:08 AM)

Ann, your group is pausing to acclimatize. You are fortunate to be able to do so.  I was a part of a grop of 8 climbers from Raleigh, NC that went for the Kili adventure in Jan. 2001.  Only 2 of us were able to summit.  Two were hosptialized from altitude sickness at Fischer Camp(west side)12,300 feet.  Four others were forced to descend at Arrow Glacier 15,300 feet.  The prehistoric looking Senecio trees are favorites of mine.  I summited and was above 18,000 feet for 24 hours.  Because all cellular regeneration in the body stops above that altitude my body suffered tremendous muscle wasting. It took 6 years for me to rebuild my body. Recovery is tougher than the climb.  All of my group is healthy now. Eat protein and weight train as soon as you get home even though you will be exhausted.  The unsung heros of the amazing trek are the local porters.  I hope the TODAY show will take time to highlight and shower praise on these dedicated climbers.  My group started with 50 porters for 8 tourists!  I thought that the village had come out to give us a send off on the trailhead.  I was shocked to learn it was our personal porter team just for us to get our stuff to the top and food for 9 nine days. I am forever grateful to Benhadad Mality, expedition leader, who's humor, singing, and "take diomox NOW" got me to the summit! Ann and crew, do this for those who can't.  You can make it.

Dotty Uhl,Raleigh,NC (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 10:09 AM)

Ann,
You're our "I can do it" TV hero. We summited in 2005 for our 60th - you can too! As everyone says "pole pole". There's nothing like standing at the top. Don't be discouraged. We're all pulling for you and the crew.  

Lou and Barbara Prues (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 10:10 AM)

I am enjoying this series very much yet it is only telling one side of the story of glaciers. There are numberous glaciers that are growing. FYI go to www.iceagenow.com/Growing-laciers.htm.

Dub Saunders, Amarillo, TX (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 10:16 AM)

Having watched Ann take dangerous flights to get to the South Pole and now this climb, I wonder just how are these job assignments picked?  Is Ann the most adventurous of all the crew?  Is she the one in the best shape? Or does she just draw the short stick?

Marica Johnson, Moscow, Idaho (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 10:19 AM)

You are so inspiring.  Did this trek in 07 with Alex LeMunge as our guide.  We recognize the tablecloths in the dining tent and wonder what outfit you are with.  Wilderness Travel by any chance.  Any guide called Cobra with you?  Good Luck!  You can do it.

jacqueline battaglino, oxford MD (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 10:19 AM)

Ann, thanks for all you do to bring awareness to the disadvantaged and the endangered, all the while you are celebrating the beauty of whatever destination you are visiting or person you are interviewing. You are far more than an anchor - you're a world ambassador and a brave individual. You can do this!

Deborah Gray, Carlsbad, CA (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 10:27 AM)

Hello Ann - I hope you get this.  I want to tell you I have watched the Today show since its inception and you are the brightest star.  To think that you are risking your life to climb the mountain is marvelous.  But I think the Today show is truly lame in not allowing you to train for this trek.  I'll be there for you through thick and thin and forget about the other cushy spots.  Be safe, my friend and good luck.

Betsy Richardson, Charlotte, NC (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 10:29 AM)

Ann - Keep going you can do it - the top is worth every slow step...  I did it in Februsary with 3 other women. We all summitted. Would do it all again.  

Susana, Longmeadow, MA (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 10:32 AM)

Thank you Ann for not wearing the fur of animals on this year's show.  I am sorry your producers are still advertising fur on the blog page.  I am very sorry to see Al with fur on his parka- he seems to be the only one in Iceland that doesn't truly care about animals.  The show is great otherwise.

ARLENE HOLIDAY RED BANK, NEW JERSEY (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 10:32 AM)

Ann, you CAN make it! I climbed Kili in June, 2008 with 15 high school students and 12 other adults.  I'm 51 and it was by far the hardest thing I have ever done in my life.  But I made it to the Roof of Africa with my husband and daughter.   Pole, Pole (slowly, slowly), and you WILL make it.  Check out our website for some great photos; my personal journal and our group journal is there.Information about Tanzania and climate change is presented.  Climate change was the focus of our journey.

Elaine Hulsman , Louisville KY (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 10:35 AM)

Pole Pole, Ann!

I am wishing you much strength and good health on the journey ahead!

I summited Kilimanjaro in February 2007 to celebrate my 120-pound weight loss and as a fundraiser for AIDS orphans. You can read about journey on my website, www.fatwomanonthemountain.com. I was also featured in the October issue of Self magazine.

You're in the thick of it now -- the very unglamourous part of trekking, fighting the altitude to achieve great heights. I often compare the mountain to my own weight loss journey -- It's slow, and hard-going but if you keep trudging along, eventually you'll get there.

Take it easy now. I had a huge headache at about 15,000 feet. I rested and was fine after that. But most importantly, listen to your guides they know what they are doing. Your summit on Kilimanjaro can be anywhere you want it to be.

I'm returning to climb Kilimanjaro in December 2009, as the finale to my Save the World Diet effort. Each month during the New Year, I'm taking on a physical challenge for charity (from the Penguin Plunge for Special Olympics in February to the Flying Pig Marathon for the American Heart Association in May) with the hopes of by the New Year I'll be healthier and the world will be a better place.

I want you to know that I think your reporting on the mountain has been fantastic and your progress thus far has been amazing for only three weeks of training. (I had six months to prepare!) Your reporting and efforts everyday -- and especially on Kilimanjaro -- make the world a better place.

I'm leaving you with a mantra helped me on the mountain, it's something my yoga instructor Reina always says: "Keep up and you'll be kept up."

Kara Richardson Whitely, Summit, N.J. (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 10:37 AM)

With trails beings already used, do you have to look where before your step?  I'm guessing most people leave there feces without burying it.  Did the NBC crew bring a shovel to bury theirs?  Does Ann have to ask the others look the other way while she finds a rock or bush
to get behind?

Glenda, Ozone Arkansas (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 10:38 AM)

Jambo, and "Ashante sana" (Thank you) NBC Today Show for bringing us such exciting information from amazing destinations! My husband is from Mombasa Kenya and relocated to the States in July 08. Each time I would fly to see him, the flight from Nairobi to Mombasa, you could always see the majestic Mt.Kilimanjaro out the side of the window of the plane. It is my dream to not necessarily climb the great Mt., but to at least stand at its foot and look up! We hope that everyone takes a closer look at Africa and its many wonders. Ive been to S.Africa and Zambia. Victoria Falls is another great wonder. Africa the holy land and its people deserves our help and attention. Help build "Wells" in Africa remote areas. Fight against the wars in the Congo, Somalia, Zambabwe etc...Africa is our friend, they are our neighbor. Thanks for bringing awareness NBC--we should report from other countries within Africa. Many people don't know that Egypt is in Africa. Yes, where Moses walked. You can take a "Bus" from Israel to Egypt. Education is KEY. Knowledge Is Power. The beauty of all these locations highlighted in these NBC segments. The Bible says that the "eyes" have not scene nor the ears have heard what Jesus has for us. Heavan is a place to look forward too!

Nikki Ross Inda, Tampa, Fl (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 10:47 AM)

Go Girl! Hang in there.  My husband and I climbed the Machame Route in 1999 with a great group of guides.  I had some sickness but got through it with acclimatization.  I know you will be safe.  The story you have gotten so far has been informative and breathtaking so if you don't make it to the top, you have done your job!
I would be interested to see what it looks like now compared to 9 years ago.  Back then the ice cliffs were awesome and imposing as you watched the sun rise on summit morning.
We continue to try and figure out how we can assist the young men that make climbing their job.  We still are in correspondence with the cook on our trip and his life is a struggle for sure.
Thank you for bringing this to everyone.
(A fellow U of O J school graduate!)


Kelly Shafer, Portland Oregon (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 10:51 AM)

I cannot believe that SOMEONE at such a bright group of people as Today Show producers didn't consider that it does take time to acclimate. Ann I love you and am suffering along with you yet applauding your Spirit as you make the climb that I know you will complete.

JoAnn Melton, St. Charles, MO (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 10:58 AM)

Hi,
Beautiful pictures! You can come down any time. You don't have to go to the top, no one will think less of you! Think of your health and family.
Thanks,
Jill Street

Jill Street, Rockford, MI (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 11:01 AM)

Hey Ann and Crew!  I climbed Kili a few months ago with a friend and just wondered if you could tell Leonard Hi from Melissa and Lisa!!   I saw him on the show yesterday and today and he is all pro.  You are in good hands!  Just go pole, pole and you will make it to the top and it is so worth it.  Take good care and I will be looking forward to keeping up with your journey on the show!

Be well,
Melissa Aycock

Melissa Aycock, Orinda, CA (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 11:06 AM)

Ann-Ann-Ann
Your my hero!  Happy Birthday !  Everyday must be like
having a birthday for you...each day you find so much
of life...from your incredible travels to your warm
engaging touch to your "plaza" people to everyone you
interview. You "Uplift Me" Happiness to You, Always
Ellen-Westfield, MA

Ellen Doody Westfield, MA (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 11:15 AM)

Living in Colorado and knowing many people that hunt and go skiing, the secret to high altitude sickness is taking antacids!!  If you start poping Rolaids before it starts and maintain taking them you will not get headaches, etc. All my friends that come to visit do this and no longer get sick.

Jeri, Littleton, CO (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 11:15 AM)

Ann-Ann-Ann
Your my hero!  Happy Birthday !  Everyday must be like
having a birthday for you...each day you find so much
of life...from your incredible travels to your warm
engaging touch to your "plaza" people to everyone you
interview. You "Uplift Me" Happiness to You, Always
Ellen-Westfield, MA

Ellen Doody Westfield, MA (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 11:16 AM)

Ann-Ann-Ann
Your my hero!  Happy Birthday !  Everyday must be like
having a birthday for you...each day you find so much
of life...from your incredible travels to your warm
engaging touch to your "plaza" people to everyone you
interview. You "Uplift Me" Happiness to You, Always
Ellen-Westfield, MA

Ellen Doody Westfield, MA (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 11:17 AM)

HI MEREDITH, WHEN ARE YOU GOING TO INTERVIEW THE ORIGINAL PEOPLE OF THE COUNTRY?HOW THEY FEEL ABOUT THE STATE OF THE COUNTRY AS TO POLUTION OF SEA AND LAND AND THEY LIVED THERE THROUGH DROUGHTS BEFORE THE ENGLISH CAME..HOW DID THEY DO IT ?

FAITH, CA (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 11:24 AM)

Ann; You are the most energetic and adventurous woman
I admire your strength and courage and thank you for empowering us all to consider doing things we have never done before.  Please take good care of yourself and come home safe.  

Micky Stanfield, Lake Worth, FL (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 11:28 AM)

Ann:

I just want to extend my birthday wish to you. Nov. 19th

GETTY LOU

Getty Lou, Chicago, Illinois (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 11:31 AM)

I did this climb in June, and it was the hardest thing I've ever done in my life.  You can do it Ann, but just take it slow and do not push yourself faster than your body will allow.  Kilimanjaro is an amazing place and I hope you get to see the summit.  The feeling when you are on the top is like no other you have experienced. Good Luck!

Bill Raudabaugh (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 11:32 AM)

good-luck and hope to see you after the trip is over.for all the women doing it proves that yes we can.women rock. see you ann on the today show.  

phyllis (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 11:50 AM)

where were you this morning ann? would have liked to have seen you with the three other anchors. good-luck and good-luck.

margaret (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 11:56 AM)

Way to go Ann!!! When I saw that you were climbing Kilimanjaro, I got chills. My brother and I accomplished this feat together a couple of years ago. The beauty and experience will stay with you forever. Go slow and keep your breaking deep and steady. And savor the moment when you reach 19,340 feet! We're  thinking of you and cheering you on!

Caroline O'Toole Nolan, Orinda, California (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 11:59 AM)

Ann thanks for being the reporter journalist that you are!!.
   Pole an step pole an step take your time an be safe good luck YOU WILL MAKE THE SUMMIT!!!!!!!!!

Bob Griesbach Mil,WI (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 12:06 PM)

First of all, YOU GO GIRL! It's always inspiring to see you take on these challenges. I was wondering, is that an iPod? What are you listening to?

Susan Bleacher, Lancaster, PA (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 12:28 PM)

Your reports bring me back to August 2007 when my partner and I climbed Kilimanjaro.  Like others have said... it was the hardest thing I've ever done.  If you remember the feeling when you reach the summit, you can use that emotion to get through any challenges in life.  GOOD LUCK!  Pole pole!

Dave Hemmer (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 12:39 PM)

Dear Ann,
You are one Brave woman. I love your drive.
I pray you and your family are safe.
Take Care,
Jeff Perry

Jeff Perry Fredeicksburg VA (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 1:02 PM)

All I can say Ann is - you are a studdetta!!

Lori W. - Orofino, Idaho (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 1:21 PM)

Ann, you are truly a treasure and light for all the world.  I am always in awe of you.  My prayers for you and all your team for a safe climb.  My husband and I were part of a team of  four that designed a fund-raising campaign, "Dig A Well In Africa", from
April through October 2008, we raised $25,000.  
This focus on the lack of water in Tanzania will hopefully stimulate others to develop and contribute to the effort of improving lives of men, women, and children by digging wells.  There are many reputable and reliable organizations through which such funds can be channeled.  Perhaps NBC can conclude this series with educating viewers about these efforts.  It's truly amazing what a minimal donation when combined with those of others can accomplish to improve and save the lives of others, and to impact the world as a whole.

Glenda Voss, San Jose, California (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 1:25 PM)

Ann:
I have nothing but admiration for the bravery you display on your adventures. You are an excellent role model for young women.  I'm 62 yrs old and I am in awe of your accomplishments.  Take care of yourself.  I hope GE gives you an outstanding bonus for this piece.  

Susan C., Wethersfield, CT (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 2:05 PM)

Who picks where you get to go? Seems like Ann gets the harder ones or either she likes those kinds. Anyway, happy birthday to you Ann, tomorrow. Be safe and next time you pick the easy one!

Elaine, New Milford, CT (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 2:09 PM)

How are the various locales given to the cast? A number of the viewers are obviously very concerned abour Ann

Sally
Tuscon, AZ

Sally Bates, Tuscson,Arizona (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 2:17 PM)

Ann,

I climbed Kilimanjaro with my husband on our honeymoon in June 2006. I am certain the route and season are making it more challenging, but Diamox is the key. Seriously. There are some mild side effects and it may be too late to start a proactive regime.  Good luck. Go slowly and pressure breathe with each step.

Susan, Louisville KY (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 3:06 PM)

Hang in there Ann.  I climbed Kilimajaro for my 50th birthday.  I wanted something really challenging and I got it.  To top it off, I have to postpone my trip to October 2007 when I was almost 51 because of some medical issues that made it even more challenging.  It was a very spiritual experience and I am very thankful that I had the opportunity to do it.  I went with the same group as you, Sobek, and they were awesome.  I remember those soups.  One thing a porter told me the second that I will not forget was, "Walk so slow that your heart doesn't know you are walking."  By the last day you will know what that means.  That will be the hardest day, but it is the roof of Africa and God is at the top.  Stay strong!

Linda Hyles, Columbus, Georgia (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 3:08 PM)

Anne,
You mentioned you were drinking water from the glacier. Have you been treating it in any way? Any worries of bacteria like in the Rockies mountain streams? Best of luck. Hope you summit. Will they have a register at the summit to record your success?
One step one breath. Hang in.



Bill Miner (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 3:10 PM)



SEND A COMMENT

PLEASE READ: All comments must be approved before appearing in the thread; time and space constraints prevent all comments from appearing. We will only approve comments that are directly related to the blog, use appropriate language and are not attacking the comments of others.

Message (please, no HTML tags. Web addresses will be hyperlinked):

Your name, city and state (John Doe, Seattle, Wash.): 

 Your e-mail address (jdoe@msnbc.com):

Your website (it's okay if you don't have one):

Remember me? (We'll keep it private)

More allDAY

Recent Posts:

Archives:

Categories

Syndicate This Site

Add allDAY to your news reader:
live.com xml
myyahoo msn
bloglines newsgator
google

MSNBC Weblogs

More Links