Lives That Make A Difference  is an A&E Networks outreach campaign that focuses on people - from all walks of life and all age groups-who have a positive impact on our world. It helps others learn how they can make their local neighborhood or their global community a better place. Through public service or private enterprise, people can make a difference.

In 2001, Erik Weihenmayer began his ascent up the tallest mountain in the world, Mt. Everest. This was a journey that began very early in life when he was diagnosed with a genetic disorder that ultimately led to total blindness by the time Erik was 13. With the support of an amazing family, Erik never allowed his handicap to hold him back. In the wake of the sudden death of his mother, Erik and his family began taking treks into remote mountain areas to keep their lives intact. Soon Erik was taking on greater challenges, including rock climbing, while finishing college and starting his teaching career. While teaching, Erik met and fell in love with a colleague, Ellie. They married and moved to Denver. After conquering numerous major peaks, Erik decided to confront his biggest challenge yet -- Mount Everest, the world's highest peak. Along the journey, Erik and his team faced unbearably treacherous conditions and witnessed the frozen remains of those who had failed in similar attempts years earlier. Finally, Erik and his colleagues made it to the top of Mount Everest, quite literally the top of the world.

Erik Weihenmayer continues to take on new challenges including participating in Primal Quest, the toughest adventure race in the world, and taking a group of blind Tibetan students to a 21,000-foot glacier on the north side of Mt. Everest. This Spring he will Lead 20 high students - 10 of them blind - into Machu Picchu via the Inca Trail. He is also a published author and prominent international speaker.

For more about how Erik Weihenmayer has made a difference, please visit:   www.touchthetop.com