It’s unbelievable that it was one year ago that James invited me to be a part of Everest Rocks and this amazing journey to the top of the world. This past year has also been quite a journey in itself. After losing my dad in December and reaching the half -century mark one month later, I knew this journey was destined to be a life-changing experience. I am so grateful to my family, friends, acquaintances and all who have supported the foundation on my behalf, and as importantly, have shared in my excitement. Each of you has given me the confidence and encouragement to go for it. Know that your support is already making a difference !

Last week, the foundation rocked The Big Apple ! We climbed 1576 steps inside the Empire State Building in 28 minutes. James Chippendale introduced The Love Hope Strength Foundation and its global mission and upcoming events to the press. Gibson guitars presented Mike Peters and the boys their custom guitars for Everest Rocks. And then they rocked the Empire with some great tunes. It was a day to remember.
And after meeting some of my fellow trekkers, I know I’m in for an adventure of a lifetime.
I want to thank my family and friends for all of your support and generosity. It means so much to me and I feel truly blessed!

With love hope and strength, I thank you from the bottom of my heart!

xoxo,
Rini

Rini Andres was born in Paris, France and raised in Texas. After spending time at the University of New Mexico, she fell in love with the mountains. Her degree in Communications from the University of Texas in Austin led to a twenty year career in marketing and advertising, including both advertising agency and corporate positions. She spent almost ten years as the Director of Marketing for PageNet, the nation’s largest paging company and traveled throughout the country and world. Her first big trek was to Machu Pichu in the Andes Mountains of Peru.

After retiring from corporate life, she volunteers with various non-profit organizations.

There have been relatives and friends who have had cancer, but she was most deeply affected by her good friend, James Chippendale, who was diagnosed with leukemia. Jim’s incredible journey to recovery and meeting his bone marrow donor gave credence to the hope and belief that cancer can be overcome. Rini is thrilled to be a part of Everest Rocks and raising money for Jim’s Love, Hope and Strength foundation.