MURRAY— Some people have to overcome cancer. Some people have to overcome climbing Mount Everest. Kay Risser had to do both.

Risser, 59, the talented and gifted coordinator for kindergarten through 12th grade at Murray Community School, went on a three-week journey through the Himalayas of Nepal in September and October.

"It was a feat that being a farm girl, sheesh, I thought I could handle anything," Risser said, "but it was a feat that tested your physical ability, your mind and your knees, hips and the spiritual part of it. It was a challenge every day — every single day."