71-Year-Old Conquers Kilimanjaro After Back Surgery

Carol Romej, a 71-year-old retired attorney, recently summited Mount Kilimanjaro, the world's tallest free-standing mountain, less than nine months after a critical back surgery. Romej had been training for the climb when an injury just eight days before her departure resulted in numbness in her left leg, forcing a postponement of her 70th birthday goal.

Initially diagnosed with a severe herniated disc pressing on a nerve, Romej underwent surgery on October 6 by Dr. Kevin Taliaferro, head of Orthopedic Spine Surgery at Henry Ford Health. The procedure, which Romej described as life-changing, immediately relieved her pain, allowing her to walk without discomfort.

Supported by physical therapists, Romej gradually rebuilt her strength and resumed training. On June 22, she successfully reached the summit of Kilimanjaro, more than 19,000 feet above sea level. She emphasized the importance of taking "pole, pole"—slowly, slowly—during the ascent, especially on the final day.

Romej credits her successful climb to the care she received from Dr. Taliaferro and the Henry Ford Health team. She is already planning future adventures, including a trip to Poland's Tatra Mountains, demonstrating her continued passion for exploration.