I was born in Germany 50 years ago. My father was a career soldier. I graduated high school in Winona Minnesota, which I call home after having lived there for four years, which was the longest I lived in any one place. In the 1970’s I spent six years in the army as a combat medical specialist, and respiratory specialist. After my military service I returned to Minnesota. Being an avid outdoorsman, and having a long-standing interest in experiencing Alaska, in 1983 I accepted a position at Providence Hospital in Anchorage. After a few years I transferred to the Alaska Native Medical Center, where I am currently employed as a Respiratory Therapist, and administer a computerized charting system for the department. I am also a freelance photographer specializing in outdoor travel and adventures sports, and created and maintain my own web site www.kakphoto.com. I rely on my computer for a variety of tasks including GPS/Map navigation.

You could say that I’m one of those life long thrill junkies and have vast experiences in the outdoors. As I’ve grown older, I now attempt to avoid excess injury or abuse to the old body, yet I continue to enjoy new adventures. In 1998 I purchased my first modern snowmobile. Since then I have logged over 9,000 miles exploring Alaska and photographing dogsledding.

I had the pleasure of being on the 2002 Serum Run as a snowmachiner, which has earned a place in my memories as a trip of a lifetime. Having gotten the dog hair off my gear, and the fragrance of high-powered dog exhaust faded from my memory, I refreshed my experience by being the Trail Boss for the 2005 & 2006 Serum Run. This year, I again have the privilege of being the Trail Boss. (I’ve discovered being the Trail Boss or Musher Coordinator requires spending much more time on the computer and phone than on the trail.)

There are many reasons why I am excited about being a part of the Serum Run Expedition; it would be too hard to list them here. Let me simply say, it is a privilege to be a part of Col. Vaughan’s expedition, and I am looking forward to once again traveling the trial and visiting the villages and people along the trial!