HUMAN

Name: Donna Klecka

Age: 64

Residence: Eagle River, Alaska

Occupation: Podiatrist

Years involved with the Iditarod: This is my first year.

Iditarod Roles: Volunteer. Trail work.

Current Location: Nulato, Alaska

Date of Photo: March 12, 2022

Temperature: 6F Outdoors 

What, who or how and when did you first get involved with the Iditarod?

I got involved in the Iditarod, because I always wanted to. Never thought I’d get a chance. And about a week ahead of the Iditarod one of my neighbors told me they needed some help. So I called in and they, the lady involved, Jennifer Dolling knew me from ski patrol. And so she says, “Yes, we could use you,” and here I am.

What is your Why? Why are you here TODAY and involved with the Iditarod?

I’m here today and involved with the Iditarod because I’ve always wanted to see interior Alaska. I love animals. I’ve got another daughter who’s a veterinarian. And it’s just so much a part of Alaska’s story.

Tell me about just one of your most memorable Iditarod experiences.

So far, the best part was the first day before I met any of the mushers, just meeting the people that live in this town. And they were so friendly and how they came out other way to help me invite me in for coffee, bring me things that we were …needed. We didn’t have all our supplies immediately and they bent over backwards for us.

What in life do you know for sure?

What I know for sure in life is nothing is for sure. You never know what’s going to happen.