When climber Dave Black got a new lease on life after receiving a revolutionary treatment for Parkinson’s, he wanted to once again stand on the summit of the Grand Teton. A lifelong climber with 15-20 ascents on the Grand, he invited two younger climbers to join him for a push up the Exum Ridge on July 16, 2024.

The events that occurred that day revealed several complex layers of high consequence adventure: decision-making, preparedness, person-to-person conflict, and the effect of a disease like Parkinson’s.

In this episode, Dave is joined by Lexie Hunsaker, a seasonal Jenny Lake Climbing Ranger at Grand Teton National Park, who was inserted via helicopter short-haul—at about 12,800 feet up—to assist in the response.

You can learn more about the Jenny Lake Rangers and how you can support them at www.gtnpf.org/jenny-lake-rangers.

This interview is by Matt Hansen. Editing and sound are by Melinda Binks. This story was recorded in the studios of KHOL 89.1 FM.

The Fine Line theme song is by Anne and Pete Sibley, with additional music provided by Ben Winship. Original artwork by Jen Reddy Ink.

Huge thanks Arcteryx.com for sponsoring this episode.