Redefining what it means to be blind, Erik has transformed the image of blindness and opened up the minds of people around the world. He has never let his blindness interfere with his passion for an exhilarating and fulfilling life.On May 25, 2001, Erik became the first blind climber in history to reach the summit of the world's highest mountain, Mount Everest.

At the age of 33, on September 5, 2002, Erik became one of less than 100 individuals to climb all of the Seven Summits - the highest peaks on each of the seven continents - when he stood on the top of Australia's Mt. Kosciusko.

Erik is a former middle school teacher and wrestling coach who has made his way onto the cover of Time, Outside and Climbing magazines.

He has also been featured on the Oprah Winfrey Show, NBC's Today, the Tonight Show and Nightly News with Tom Brokaw. He is the author of the best selling Touch the Top of the World.

He is the recipient of numerous awards, among them the prestigious National Courage Award and the 2002 ESPN ESPY award.