RADNOR, Pa.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jeff Glasbrenner, an American Paralympian sponsored by Lincoln Financial Group, has successfully climbed Mount Everest—making him the first American amputee to reach the mountain’s summit.
Glasbrenner and his expedition team arrived at Mount Everest base camp on April 3, 2016. The team spent about a month at base camp, where they trained and physically adjusted to the altitude. On May 10, the group embarked on their summit climb, reaching the top of Everest on May 18 and completing their descent on May 21.
“Reaching the top of Everest is significant to me in many ways,” said Glasbrenner. “Throughout my life, I’ve worked to overcome obstacles and reach my goals, while always maintaining a positive attitude. This experience truly tested my resolve, and I came out stronger than before. And the fact that I’m able to share what I’ve learned along the way with others makes it that much more meaningful.”
After losing his leg in a farming accident at just eight years old, Glasbrenner was told he would never run, swim or participate in sports again. Refusing to accept that “new reality,” he went on to excel in the athletic world—becoming a three-time Paralympian and two-time World Champion in wheelchair basketball. He also finished 25 long-distance triathlons. Glasbrenner only began climbing in recent years, quickly setting his sights on conquering Everest.
“We’re honored to have been a part of this journey with Jeff,” said Dick Mucci, president of Group Protection at Lincoln Financial Group. “He represents so many of the values Lincoln stands for—optimism, perseverance and the will to set and achieve goals. Through this sponsorship and in helping him accomplish his goals, we also hope to inspire our partners, clients and customers.”
For more information on Jeff’s journey to Everest, visit his column on LincolnFinancial.com.
About Lincoln Financial Group
Lincoln Financial Group provides advice and solutions that help empower Americans to take charge of their financial lives with confidence and optimism. Today, more than 17 million customers trust our retirement, insurance and wealth protection expertise to help address their lifestyle, savings and income goals, as well as to guard against long-term care expenses. Headquartered in Radnor, Pennsylvania, Lincoln Financial Group is the marketing name for Lincoln National Corporation (NYSE:LNC) and its affiliates. The company had $220 billion in assets under management as of March 31, 2016. Learn more at: www.LincolnFinancial.com. Find us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube. To sign up for email alerts, please visit our Newsroom at http://newsroom.lfg.com.