Julie McKelvey, owner of 34 Miracle-Ear franchises in Pennsylvania, including one in Butler, has raised over $150,000 for people who need hearing aids in the state through her climbing initiative, Summit for Sound.

McKelvey's passion for climbing has taken her to five of the Seven Summits, the highest peaks on each continent. Last week, McKelvey scaled Mout Denali in Alaska.

“This journey to complete the Seven Summits has been an incredible adventure and gift in my life,” said McKelvey. “When I’m up in high altitude and confronting challenges, it reminds me of all of the hurdles those who are hearing-impaired face. In the really tough moments, helping give them the gift of sound is what keeps me going.”