Climbing for a cause: Texarkana woman raises thousands for CHRISTUS St. Michael NICU

While many people dream of climbing a mountain, one local woman turned that dream into a mission—raising thousands of dollars for newborns in need.

In recognition of International Day of Charity on Friday, CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System is spotlighting the efforts of Holland Gerald, 43, who has raised more than $20,000 over a six-year period for the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) through her love of climbing and adventure.

The highlight of her fundraising was a climb of Aconcagua, the highest mountain outside of Asia.

“It was a bucket list dream that came to fruition,” she said. “But it was also very intentional pain, both mentally and physically, for a cause I care deeply about.”

Although she doesn’t have a personal connection to the NICU, her love for babies and desire to give back inspired her to trade her annual Christmas fundraiser for something more extreme: a 50-mile trek through Argentina’s Andes Mountains.

The 20-day expedition included 12 to 13 days of hiking, with medical checks before each leg.

Climbers must meet strict physical requirements and have prior high-altitude experience, but age is not a factor.

“There are no helicopters to rescue you up there,” she said. “Being able to get yourself back down is a requirement to climb.”

In addition to the climb, Gerald raised funds through community donations and awareness efforts.

“We are incredibly grateful to Holland Gerald for her dedication and generosity,” said Lesli Banister, NICU clinical director at CHRISTUS St. Michael Hospital. “Her efforts to raise funds for our NICU mean so much to our team and the families we serve. Support like this helps us continue providing the highest level of care to our tiniest patients.”

Each year, the CHRISTUS St. Michael NICU sees hundreds of newborns, providing specialized treatment for premature births, respiratory challenges, infections and other critical conditions that require intensive medical support.

Gerald’s story reminds us that charity doesn’t always come wrapped in a check. Sometimes, it comes with blisters, altitude sickness and a heart full of purpose.

“I knew the impact would be great, and being able to help provide comfort for families gave such a deeper purpose for me to continue raising funds in the future,” Gerald said.