Calay News
Ximena Gutiérrez, a 22-year-old Mexican cancer survivor, embarks on an inspiring expedition to conquer Pico de Orizaba, Mexico’s highest mountain, alongside a group of compatriots and French survivors. Despite amputation, Ximena and fellow climbers Erika García (23), Fernando (18), and David (30) Hernández face the challenge of “Citlaltépetl” or “Pico de Orizaba,” standing at 5,610 meters.
This adventure is part of the “Summits of Hope” project, where Mexicans and French join forces. After climbing the Alps together in July, the Europeans return to Mexico. The expedition begins with a night of adaptation at 4,200 meters, followed by a challenging journey of five to six hours on steep paths and volcanic rocks.
Ximena, Erika, Fernando, and David share the experience of overcoming osteosarcoma, an aggressive bone cancer affecting children and adolescents. Using crutches and a prosthesis, they navigate the fresh snow during their ascent.
The journey culminates at the base camp at 4,900 meters, at the foot of the glacier. Despite the difficulties, the group advances, and Ximena, a professional makeup artist, emphasizes, “I’m always surprised by what I can do and by what I am capable of. I think it’s the beginning of a discovery of myself.”
The summit, reached after hours of effort, offers a spectacular view. This odyssey, led by Mathieu Dornier, a French entrepreneur committed to the cause, aims to give cancer survivors the opportunity to overcome challenges. “We’ve won some battles and lost others,” writes Mathieu, highlighting that the fight continues. An emotional story of resilience and hope unfolds in the heights of Mexico.
