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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 lead to totally blindness by the time Erik was 13. With the support of an amazing family, Erik never allowed his handicap to hold him back. Erik's mom defiantly fought to keep Erik in school with his fellow students. Erik's father encouraged him to remain physically active and he went in to become a champion wrestler in high school. In the wake of the sudden death of his mother, Erik and his family began taking climbing trips to keep their lives intact. Soon Erik was taking on greater challenges, including mountain climbing, while finishing college and starting his teaching career.
After conquering numerous major peaks, Erik decided to confront his biggest challenge -- Mount Everest, the world's highest peak. Erik was joined by several of his climbing buddies who risked their own lives in this pursuit. Along the journey, the 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.
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