My Story…
Climbing for David – 110 Floors of Remembrance
For the 5th year in a row, I am participating in the San Diego 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Once again, I will be carrying the name and memory of Firefighter David Fontana (FDNY) – something that has become a tradition for me.
David was a man who understood the importance of history. He dedicated himself to researching fallen firefighters from WWII and ensured memorial plaques were placed in their fire stations so they would never be forgotten. As someone driven by the same passion for preserving the past, it is deeply personal to me to now make sure that his story is told too.
And as it happens, he shares his birthday – October 17th – with my great-grandmother and my mother, making our connection even more meaningful.
Tragically, on September 11, 2001, his 8th wedding anniversary, he made the ultimate sacrifice while saving others. I will be climbing 110 floors – the height of the Twin Towers – to honor his legacy and the bravery of all first responders who answered the call.
For those who continue this work today, I'm raising funds through FirefighterAid, an organization that supports firefighters and their families in times of crisis.
Every step I take is for David. Every donation you make helps a hero. Thank you for being part of this journey with me.

Donate to help Silke raise money for 2026 San Diego 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb’s fundraising campaign.
Recent donors
| Donation date | Donor name | Donation amount |
|---|---|---|
| May 29 | Aaron M Ruiz | $64.75 |
| May 29 | Marcus | $54.10 |
| May 26 | Anonymous | Undisclosed amount |
| May 20 | Jana & Udo | $22.15 |
| May 18 | Mary Cullen | $267.10 |
| May 18 | Debbie Bickerstaff | $267.10 |
| May 15 | Bernhard Lange | $27.48 |
| May 14 | Mama and Papa | $54.10 |
| May 13 | Elaine | $267.10 |