My heart breaks for the tragic loss of our friend Mon.
It hurts deeply — not only for the emptiness his absence leaves in our lives, but for our friends who were closest to him, who walked beside him through the pain and tried with everything they had to keep him here, to bring him justice, and to preserve the safety and integrity of our climbing community. I can’t begin to imagine the weight of what they carried, or the strength it took to hold it all.
It aches for those who truly knew Mon — those who shared in his joy, witnessed his fierce commitment to justice, and were forever changed by his love, his generosity, and his vision for a better world. His impact wasn’t loud or boastful — it was quiet, consistent, powerful. He moved through this world with so much care for others, and so much drive to make our communities safer, stronger, and more inclusive.
Anyone who met Mon, even briefly, could feel it — the warmth he radiated, the way he welcomed you exactly as you were, the way he created space for all of us to belong. He didn’t just talk about love and acceptance; he lived it. He showed up, over and over again, for those who needed support. He believed in the power of collective care, and he taught us how to love each other better — through action, accountability, and compassion.
Losing Mon is a wound that may never fully heal. But in this grief, I also feel immense gratitude. I’m grateful to have witnessed his light. I’m grateful for the lives he changed. I’m grateful for the ways he challenged systems, lifted others up, and never stopped pushing for justice — even when it cost him.
To honor Mon is to carry forward the values he embodied. To protect one another, to hold space for hard truths, to fight for those whose voices go unheard. It’s in showing up for our friends, even when it’s uncomfortable. It’s in speaking out, even when we’re scared. It’s in caring — really caring — about the wellbeing of our communities.
Mon, you gave us so much. Your love, your strength, your vision. You shouldn’t have had to carry so much. You should still be here. We will never forget you, and we will continue the work you poured your heart into.
Thank you for everything you gave us. We love you, always. And we will never stop saying your name.
