Be part of the climb

Help turn one second chance into a thousand more. 

Why Give?

Make a Difference

Your donation helps create real, measurable change in the lives of those we serve.

Be Part of the Solution

Join a community of people working together to address important issues.

The relationship does not have to end at the summit. The journey will continue through the memoir, speaking engagements, campaign storytelling, and the veteran organizations this effort is designed to support – giving partners multiple opportunities to engage across the entire campaign. 

A two-year story. Not just a one-day summit.

“You’re not simply sponsoring the climb. You’re helping tell a story about what people can do with a second chance – while helping create second chances for others along the way.” 

Your Impact
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Frequently Asked Questions

  • Summit of Second Chances is a two-year climbing and fundraising campaign culminating in an attempt to summit Mount Everest in spring 2028. The mission is to turn my own second chance at life into an opportunity to advocate for veterans, raise awareness, and generate meaningful financial support for organizations serving veterans and their families.

  • After surviving heart failure and navigating the challenges that followed, I wanted to do something meaningful with the second chance I was given. Everest represents the ultimate test—and an opportunity to show others who may believe their fight is over that there can still be another chapter, another purpose, and another mountain worth climbing.

  • The campaign goal is $350,000 over two years. Approximately $250,000 is budgeted for the training, qualifying expeditions, equipment, travel, medical requirements, and logistics necessary to safely attempt Mount Everest, with at least $100,000 dedicated to supporting veteran-focused organizations.

  • The following is a working estimate based on published 2026 guided-expedition cost data and two years of training and travel. Doug is also working closely with Climb the Seven Summits (CTSS) on his journey to summit Mount Everest. Their expedition manager and climbing team have estimated the complete journey, including expeditions, equipment, and international travel could cost approximately $250,000. Final figures will be refined as specific guide services, training programs, and gear are selected. These figures are subject to change.

    Estimated Cost

    Government permits & royalty fees (Nepal): $20,000

    Technical gear, equipment, & supplies: $30,000

    3x High-altitude preparation climbs (required)

     1.      Cotopaxi & Cayambe Peaks (Ecuador): $15,000

    2.      Aconcagua Expedition (Argentina): $20,000

    3.      Manaslu (Nepal): final qualifying climb: $40,000

    Mount Everest Summit (Spring 2028, 1:1 Sherpa support, medical support, insurance, local transportation fees, permitting, and other fees associated): $80,000 - 100,000

    Medical / cardiology clearance, monitoring & insurance: $10,000

    Contingency & incidentals: $15,000

    Estimated Total Cost (over the next 20-24 months): $250,000

  • Every dollar raised beyond the actual cost of completing the expedition will be directed toward organizations serving the veteran community. The goal is not simply to fund Everest, but to use Everest as a platform to create an even greater impact.

  • Absolutely! I am currently in the process of procuring gear, equipment, and supplies for my first trip. Do you have something you’d like to donate and provide?

    Do you have gear or equipment you’d like me to field test?

    Do you have supplies or food you’d like to provide for my expeditions?

  • Yes. Sharing the campaign, introducing me to potential sponsors or partners, providing equipment or professional services, following and sharing the journey, and helping the mission reach a larger audience can all make a significant difference.

  • The entire road to Everest—from training and qualifying climbs to setbacks, successes, and expedition updates—will be documented throughout the campaign. Supporters will be able to follow the journey through the website, social media, campaign updates, events, and other content leading all the way to Everest in 2028.