Team from Texas joins climbers in fundraiser for cancer cure

12:30 PM CDT on Tuesday, July 1, 2008
By CHRIS COATS / Special Contributor to The Dallas Morning News

After seeing family members and close friends diagnosed and dying of cancer, Matthew Pirtle of Frisco wanted to help find a cure.

The foundation challenges climbers, from weekend novices to professionals, to form teams to conquer the tallest peak in their state to raise money for research and patient services, said Dianne Farb, the nonprofit's co-founder.

"It's honoring the people we lost but also those fighting the disease," said Mr. Pirtle, a Frisco account executive. "I want to raise every dime to get this kicked but to also challenge myself to do it by reaching new heights."

The climbs are taking place throughout June. Ten teams nationwide signed up, raising more than $40,000, Ms. Farb said. The group includes Mr. Pirtle, who recruited family members and friends Bobby Johnson, Gary Marines, Todd Metten and Brett Smith to form Team Tejas.

Team Tejas raised more than $6,000 from friends and co-workers, and on Saturday the group will tackle Guadalupe Peak. With its peak at nearly 9,000 feet above sea level, it's the tallest formation in the state, located in the Guadalupe Mountains National Park in West Texas.

"I've climbed, but I'm not an expert," Mr. Pirtle said. "Guadalupe Peak is very achievable for weekend warriors. I recruited a group of guys with a love for the outdoors and charity."

The team has been training for the past few months, either biking or climbing whatever hills or trails they can find to get in shape. To climb the peak, Team Tejas will take a 4.25 mile trail amid rocky terrain and cacti.

Bobby Johnson, Mr. Pirtle's brother-in-law, feels that any aches that they've experienced training or even discomfort during the climb is nothing in comparison to what cancer patients endure. He said they are a source of inspiration.

"It's their fighting attitude that you take on the mountain," he said. "Whether it's climbing mountains or fighting for your life, it's their impressive will to never give up."

Myra Rooney, hairstylist for Mr. Pirtle and for Mr. Johnson's mother, beat ovarian cancer four years ago. Recently, however, the cancer returned in her colon and abdomen. Mr. Pirtle let her know that their climb is dedicated to her and other loved ones.

"I feel so honored that they're doing this and going to this extreme to raise money for more research to be done," she said. "I thanked them from the bottom of my heart."

Friends are already coming forward to join next year's climb. The team has set its goals high looking at conquering the Grand Tetons or Mount Rainer.

"It's getting to the top of the mountain and remembering who we're climbing for," Mr. Pirtle said. "It's joining together to do our share in helping to save lives."