I never thought, when I completed my first rappel in 2010, that I would do it again. I remember how I felt hanging over the edge that year. This may be hard to believe, but stepping over the edge wasn’t the hardest part. It was feeding the rope through the carabiner to lower myself. I remember thinking, I can’t do this. I will be so embarrassed if I don’t make it, but I pushed myself to get to the bottom.

I continue to rappel to support the work of Easter Seals. I like the challenge and how it quiets the voice in my head that says I am not capable. Now, when I am in downtown Halifax and see 1801 Hollis, I am proud of myself. I remind myself that I am capable and the people who have told me I am not capable are wrong.

I’m rappelling this year in memory of my mother, Joan, who passed away in May 2024. She has always been my biggest supporter, and I know she will be with me during my descent, from the top of 1801 Hollis all the way to the ground.

Last year, our rappel time was scheduled for noon. We were harnessed up and hanging off the side of a very tall building. The Citadel Hill noon gun went off. I can tell you that the sound of that gun is very loud 23 stories up.

My 2024 teammate, Denise Oickle, had this to say about her rappel experience.

I did my first rappel with my high school friend, Debby Chipman. I was reluctant to do it, but Debby was persistent so one day I said “I’ll do it for your mom” because on May 13 her mom had passed. Her mom had asked me to take care of Debby and I thought this would be a great way to support her. When we stood on the edge of the building and the noon gun went off, I looked beside me and I saw my friend Debby, in her cape being the superhero that she always is. The song that she asked to play “Mony Mony” came on and down we rappelled, my heart pounding. I knew my family was there watching and I wanted to make them proud. I listened to the music and my fear disappeared as we both sang at the top of our lungs and down we went. I am so proud that I was able to do that with my friend in honour of both of our moms. My fear turned into the biggest smile I have had in a long time; I was so proud that I was able to do this with my friend. That’s one for the bucket list checked off. Thank you, Debby, for taking care of me and all that you have done for 13 years in support of Easter Seals.

In my previous 13 rappels, I have raised an incredible $71,558. I could not have done this without generous donations from family and friends.

My 14th rappel is on August 12th. It is not too late for you to sign up. I would love to have your support either as a teammate or a sponsor. I have been sponsoring myself since I registered.

Your generosity is greatly appreciated, and no amount is too little. Just click on the link and it will take you to my Personal Fundraising Page.

Easter Seals Nova Scotia is the beneficiary of this event. This organization is committed to helping children, youth, and adults with disabilities in Nova Scotia become unstoppable in their lives by providing programs that promote mobility, inclusion, and independence.

Thank you.