DISABILITY IS NOT INABILITY: MEET A MAN WITH NO RIGHT LEG AND RIGHT ARM MADE IT TO THE TOP OF MT. KILIMANJARO FOR A CAUSE!

John Cairns, a 50-year-old Canadian who lost his right arm and leg in a workplace accident in 1992, is an extraordinary example of perseverance and determination. Accompanied by Lucas Wiseman, Cairns embarked on a seven-day Mt. Kilimanjaro Charity Expedition through the challenging Rongai Route. Their mission? To raise awareness about the abilities of people with physical disabilities and to generate support for the Wheelchair of Hope Foundation, which Cairns founded to provide mobility solutions to those in need.

Reaching New Heights Against All Odds

On the morning of August 7, 2016, Cairns achieved an incredible milestone: he reached Gilman’s Point at 5,681 meters above sea level after a grueling 2.5-hour climb from Hans Meyer Cave. Despite his physical challenges, he pushed forward with the support of ZARA Tanzania Adventures’ professional mountain guides. His friend and fellow climber, Lucas Wiseman, continued onward to Uhuru Peak, the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro at 5,895 meters, completing the journey together in spirit.

“Reaching Gilman’s Point was a dream come true,” Cairns recalled with tears of joy. “The climb was physically and emotionally challenging, but I was determined to prove that anything is possible.”

Climbing for a Cause

Cairns’ climb wasn’t just a personal achievement—it was a platform to promote the dignity and independence of individuals with disabilities. Through the Wheelchair of Hope Foundation, Cairns aims to provide mobility devices such as wheelchairs and scooters to those who otherwise lack access. “Mobility is at the center of everything we do. It brings freedom, independence, and a better quality of life,” Cairns explained.

The expedition also included acts of kindness along the way. In Rombo District, Kilimanjaro Region, Cairns distributed toothbrushes and toothpaste to marginalized children, courtesy of donations from Family Dental Centre in Canada.

The Journey to Inspire Others

For Cairns, the climb symbolized hope and determination. “I want the world to know that people with disabilities can achieve incredible things when given support and opportunity,” he said. Cairns also expressed immense gratitude to the ZARA Tanzania Adventures team for their guidance, patience, and kindness throughout the journey.

Lucas Wiseman, a photojournalist from Canada and Cairns’ climbing partner, also had a long-standing dream of summiting Mt. Kilimanjaro. “Climbing Kilimanjaro is not just about reaching the top; it’s about helping others through charity,” Wiseman shared. He now plans to climb other peaks in the Seven Summits challenge to raise awareness for global causes.

Transforming Lives Through Mobility

Since its founding, the Wheelchair of Hope Foundation has delivered mobility devices to children, teens, and adults in Canada and Tanzania. “Our mission is to bring hope and opportunity through freedom of movement,” said Cairns. With the support of local and international sponsors, the foundation continues to empower lives and communities.

Cairns plans to return to Mt. Kilimanjaro for another climb, aiming to reach Uhuru Peak and further champion the cause for mobility and inclusion.

Join the Movement

John Cairns’ story is a testament to the power of resilience and the human spirit. To support his mission or learn more about the Wheelchair of Hope Foundation, visit Climb for Mobility or follow the foundation on Facebook. Together, we can prove that disability is not inability—it’s a gateway to inspiring others to dream big and achieve more.