Board Members' Kilimanjaro Climb a Triumph for Babies Around the World

 On Thanksgiving Day, after an arduous seven-day climb, Children's National board members Natalia Luis and Cidalia Luis-Akbar reached the peak of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest-free standing mountain. The climb up the 19,341-foot African mountain was part of the sisters' campaign to raise money and awareness for the Fetal Medicine Institute at Children's National. Their journey symbolized their desire to take fetal medicine to new heights so babies around the world can have the best chance to survive and thrive. Cidalia’s experience with Children’s National during a challenging personal journey inspired her and her sister to give back in this unique way. All funds raised through the campaign will support earlier, more accurate diagnostics during high-risk pregnancies and help set a new standard of care for fragile newborns. They are halfway toward their goal of $500,000. 

Upon reaching the summit, Natalia and Cidalia proudly flew the Dr. Bear flag. Natalia said, "Children's National, as you can see, we've realized the dream of reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. We are inspired by you and everything you do, every single day." She added, "Kurt Newman, David Wessel, Adre du Plessis, Catherine Limperopoulos, and all of the miracle workers at Children's National--we salute you, we're grateful to you. We love you. Thank you." While Cidalia and Natalia have successfully achieved their goal of scaling the mountain, they still need support to reach their fundraising goal for the Fetal Medicine Institute. You can make a secure, online donation here.  View the full photo album.