Anya's Himalayan Expedition
in Support of Cleveland Clinic

My Why

This October, I’m participating in one of the toughest endurance tests on the planet: the Snowman’s Trek in Bhutan. Over four weeks, I’ll hike 220 miles (354 kilometers), crossing some of the most remote and breathtaking terrain in the Himalayas, with mountain passes rising above 17,000 feet (5,000 meters).

I’m doing this for my grandfather, Boris. He was the one who first took me into the outdoors and inspired my love of adventure. When I was 9 years old, he died of a heart attack; he was only 53. That loss has always stayed with me.

I hope my grandfather would be proud of me as I push myself and test my limits. I’ve built a career in investment banking while raising a family. That has demanded focus, stamina and commitment — qualities I’ll now carry with me into a new challenge in the mountains.

Above all, I’m doing this to raise support for Cleveland Clinic. I’ve seen firsthand how this institution transforms lives. Many times I’ve wondered: Would my grandfather still be with us if he had had access to the kind of world-class care that Cleveland Clinic provides today? As I prepare for this journey, I’m thinking of him.

I'm also inspired by the patients and families who climb mountains of their own, day after day. Every step I take on the trail will be for them — a reminder that when it comes to the journey of life, we’re all in this together.

By supporting me in this endeavor, you’ll be helping to accelerate the vital work of Cleveland Clinic as it touches the lives of people around the world. I invite you to join me through your encouragement, your generosity and your belief in the great things that we can accomplish side by side.

With gratitude, 
Anya Weaving Mihaljevic