Philip L. and Erin Holstein

Hiking the “46” in upstate New York is recognized as one of the greatest challenges in the Adirondack Park. It’s one that Erin Holstein is proud to tackle in honor of her father and hero, Philip L. Holstein, who completed his beloved 46 Adirondack High Peaks hikes by age 13. Philip passed away of pancreatic cancer in the fall of 2016.

Erin Holstein with her father, Philip L. Holstein

Erin Holstein with her father, Philip L. Holstein

“My dad had a thirst for life and an appreciation of nature and the world that was contagious,” Erin said. “Even in the darkest of days, my dad always awoke positive, with hope and a fighter’s spirit, grateful for life. He taught me what love is all about.”

Erin has dedicated her 46 hikes to raising funds for the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network. She created a Wage Hope My Way page to tell her father’s story, and her goal is $46,000.  She’s nearly halfway there!

Erin and her father hiking

Erin and her father hiking

“We did everything together, even in my adult years,” said Erin. “Camping, skiing, hiking, father-daughter dates, trips to the Olympics, regular walks to talk about life – my Dad and I were kindred spirits, two peas in a pod.”

Erin was able to remind him of her mission just before he passed. She welcomes all to join her in a hike, or to do one of their own in memory of her dad.

Follow Erin’s progress here – and read more about the 46 Adirondack High Peaks here.