In January 2025, my friend Claire H. and I decided to take on a big challenge. Claire, who has cystic fibrosis, is 26 years post–double lung transplant and 10 years post–kidney transplant. She is 50 years old. I am 66 years old with cystic fibrosis and 12 years post–double lung transplant. Together, we set our sights on hiking from Yosemite Valley to Glacier Point — a round trip hike of 9.6 miles with a 3,200-foot elevation gain. Ultimately reaching 7,200 feet! It was, without question, the hardest hike either of us had ever attempted — but we were determined to take it on. Having a goal, whether it’s physical, creative, or mental, gives life focus and direction. It shapes how you approach each day and influences everything from your energy to your outlook. Claire introduced my husband and me to a sport called rucking — hiking while carrying weights in a backpack. The idea is that the added resistance builds not only cardiovascular endurance but also muscular strength. We each started light, with 5 to 10 pounds, so we wouldn’t risk injury. Over the months, we met for hikes that pushed us both physically and mentally. It was remarkable how carrying that extra weight improved our stamina and confidence. I often reminded myself: just one step at a time.
The purpose of us sharing our story is to encourage others to set personal goals. A goal doesn’t have to be as extreme as ours — it can be anything that gives your life direction, purpose and joy. Goals can be creative endeavors, culinary creations, artistic projects, or physical challenges. Goals help keep life from feeling repetitive; they add purpose to your days. Reaching a goal brings a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment that carries over to every part of your life. When you set a goal, you’re not just planning an outcome — you are setting an intention. You are more likely to eat well, structure your days mindfully, and make time for the things that truly matter.
As the day of our big hike approached, we both had doubts about whether we could do it. But we encouraged each other, step by step, switchback by switchback. The hike was strenuous, but reaching Glacier Point was exhilarating beyond words. From the top, we could see the breathtaking expanse of Yosemite Valley — Half Dome, Vernal and Nevada Falls, North Dome and Clouds Rest in the distance. We were elated.
On the descent, we couldn’t help but reflect on what we had achieved — and how it felt to finally complete something we’d trained for over the course of 10 months.
As people living with cystic fibrosis and as transplant recipients, a large part of our daily lives revolves around managing our health. But focusing on this goal — preparing for and completing the hike — gave us a chance to look outward, to shift our attention from constant medical routines to something bigger and more life-affirming. It reminded us that while our health is important, our joy and purpose are, too. As we get older, it’s easy to fall into routines that don’t necessarily bring happiness. But we both believe it’s essential to do at least one thing each day that brings you joy and makes you grateful to be alive.
We are deeply thankful to our organ donors and their families for giving us the opportunity to live long enough to take on — and complete — this incredible challenge. This did not happen overnight. It took months of training, patience, and persistence. Our greatest message is this: set a goal that challenges you, something just outside your comfort zone — something you never thought you could do. Having a friend to partner with helps to motivate you and makes the experience much more rewarding. You might surprise yourself. It might even open a whole new world!
By: Elyse Elconin-Goldberg