People

AUGUST 2022. MONT VENTOUX.

Paul Van Tatenhove·Jul 1, 2026 · 07:19

Sometimes you take a step that you only realize years later how pivotal it has been.

This photo was taken in 2022, at the top of Mont Ventoux. I had just completed the climb. Proud, tired, and grateful.

But I had no idea this was not just a mountain.

I didn't know this would be the first of My Seven Summits for Life.

I also did not know then that from my diagnosis of metastatic melanoma cancer, a mission would emerge that would inspire thousands of people to take action.

A mission that would raise over €130,000 for Matchis Stem Cell Donation Fund and even help save a human life through a stem cell donation.

And now the beautiful thing is...

In two years, I hope to stand here again.

So that I can complete the circle together with Tanja, Sem, and Linn.

Where everything unconsciously began, my seventh and final mountain will then end.

This photo reminds me that you don't always need to know where the road leads. You just have to show the courage to take the first step.

Behind that first step could be an adventure greater than you ever dared to dream.

This mountain not only changed my life, but also that of others. That's why I keep climbing. Mountain after mountain. Until the circle is complete.