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Group To Embark On 70-Mile Hike To Benefit Local Veterans

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - It's called The Crucible and it's first of its kind fundraiser in our area.

The name itself gives you a clue that it'll be quite the challenge.

"You never know what your limits are until you exceed them," Co-Chairman Dr. Joe Maroon said.

Dr. Maroon is also one of the participants who met this week to talk about exactly what they got themselves into.

"We wanted to have an opportunity to let the hikers get prepared for the event. We wanted to talk a little bit about stretching, sort of final preparations sort of physically for the event. A little bit about nutrition and go over packing lists and questions the hikers might have as we get ready for the event," Checkpoint Executive Director Jared Souder said.

Fifty men and women will make a 70-mile hike in just three days, starting Friday near Johnstown and finishing at Ohiopyle on Sunday.

Former Steeler Rocky Bleier is the other co-chair.

"I was really happy to be able to bring awareness. I think that's maybe the key role that I have is to bring awareness to what Checkpoint is all about and the commitment that these great people have be able to take this 70-mile hike," he said.

Checkpoint links military members and their families to groups, resources and services around Southwestern Pennsylvania. The Crucible will provide money for their work.

"It's something that will be an annual fundraiser really designed to be something interesting, a little bit different, that raised money to bring together services in the veteran community," Souder said.

Dr. Maroon has competed in the Ironman Triathlon. To prepare for The Crucible, he's been climbing the steps at the Cathedral of Learning every afternoon.

"There's no better way to train for hiking or camping like this. Also, last year, I was fortunate to do Mt. Kilimanjaro with my daughter so I am looking forward to this challenge as well," Dr. Maroon said.

Dr. Maroon joined "The KDKA Moring News" with Larry Richert and John Shumway to talk about The Crucible hike and the purpose for it.

Dr. Maroon says he thinks The Crucible is a way people can help veterans.\

"I see veterans that have been very badly damaged and I don't think we do enough at all. We all agree, we don't do enough for these (veterans) who give not only give their bodies, but their lives," says Maroon.

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