13th Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Mobile
Perseverance

Backpacking in the Maroon Bells 3 pass loop, we woke up to 8 inches of snow, and lots of wind. I had to take a break on the climb, and I took this photo. I caught my friend struggling up the same slope. He has form of arthritis called dermatomyositis, and this picture perfectly captures his struggle, and ultimate perseverance. His disease doesn't slow him down.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 09.2013
Date Uploaded: 09.2015
Photo Location: Near Aspen, CO, Colorado, United States of America
Camera: iPhone 4S
Copyright: © Brad Rank