Please don't call her "wonder woman", even though that's what she
really is. Call her a mother, a survivor, a fighter and a motivator - but she
really just wants us to call her "Wendy". And, the more you get to
know her you'll see why: she doesn't use labels. She prefers actions to words.
And, while she seems to have super powers, she's just a woman on a mission: to
become the first person with MS to climb the Seven Summits (the
highest mountain on each of the seven continents).
Why climb mountains? Not just because she has multiple sclerosis, although
her disease does motivate her. As do her children. In fact, as do ALL children.
"I use mountains as metaphors for the obstacles we all encounter in
life," says Wendy. "And, I want to inspire others - especially young
people - not to see obstacles as mountains in their way, but more as challenges
to 'climb' over and around. We all have such 'mountains' in our lives and we
cannot let them stop us!"
You may say that it's a bit extreme to run marathons (Did we forget to
mention, Wendy has completed nine marathons since her MS diagnosis in 1998?!)
and climb mountains, but as she explains: "I'm not telling people they
need to climb mountains or run marathons, but once you get your diagnosis, have
your pity party. But don't let the disease or challenge stop you." Since
some people with MS may use a wheelchair and can't really keep physically
active, Wendy suggests finding a mental challenge or a new passion. "It's
all about attitude. Even the most severely challenged can move forward with the
right attitude."
Wendy's story is about overcoming obstacles whatever they may be through a
journey of self-discovery, serendipity and stubborness. So far, she has
summited five of the Seven Summits which include: 20,320 ft. Mt.
McKinley (Denali, Alaska, US), 19,340 ft. Mt. Kiliminjaro (Africa), 18,481 ft.
Mt. Elbrus (Russia), 22,834 ft. Mt. Aconcagua (Argentina), and most recently
16, 067 ft. Mt. Vinson Massif (Antarctica)!.
Wendy's adventures have sparked a great deal of interest from many quarters:
MS patients, the medical establishment, support groups, corporations, trade
associations, schools and countless individuals all around the globe. That
interest has launched her down the path of public speaking.
Today, Wendy travels frequently telling her story of determination, disappointment,
transformation and triumph to audiences large and small. She is available to
make presentations, keynote addresses and MC events.
Wendy is using her journey to carry a message of determination and hope to
MS patients, to health care providers, to the public and even into inner city
schools. Her stalwart commitment to conquering MS and climbing the Seven Summits
can help others find the strength to overcome their own obstacles. Let Wendy
Booker inspire your audience!