Why I Climb 110 Flights Every September
Honoring the ones who ran toward the fire
Every September, I lace up my shoes, strap on a 40-pound vest, and climb 110 flights of stairs. Not for time. Not for applause. But for remembrance.
This year marks my third 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb.
It’s not a race. It’s a way to pay respect to the first responders — firefighters, paramedics, and police officers — who charged into the Twin Towers without hesitation. Many didn’t make it back out. They knew the risks and went anyway.
I climb to honor them.
Where I Was That Day
I was 25 years old, living in North Carolina. I'd just moved up from Florida and was crashing on my sister’s couch. I remember messaging a friend that morning when they told me a plane had crashed into one of the towers. I thought it was a small private plane — something freak and tragic.
Then I turned on the TV.
I watched the second plane hit live.
I watched both towers collapse.
It was also my sister’s birthday.
That memory is burned into me — and I carry it every time I climb.
Why I Do This
There’s a lot of noise out there. A lot of people looking for the next challenge, the next transformation, the next “go viral” moment.
But this isn’t about any of that.
This is about grit. Reflection. Gratitude.
This is about showing up — not just for ourselves, but for those who never got to finish their day.
Every step in that stairwell is a reminder that life is fragile. That strength is earned. And that some men did the unthinkable so others could live.
This climb is how I remember them.
Want to Support the Cause?
If this resonates with you — if you believe in honoring the fallen and supporting those who still serve — I’d be grateful for your support.
Every dollar raised helps fund first responder organizations and makes sure their sacrifices are never forgotten.
Thank you for reading. Thank you for caring.
And thank you for remembering with me.
— Chad
Founder, uAnimal
