Aging at Altitude
Elevate Your Health: Spotlight on Healthy Aging
Join Us for the Second Annual Healthy Journey Symposium
Health and wellness innovations are helping us live longer and fuller lives in the Roaring Fork Valley. Find inspiration and learn more at Aspen Valley Hospital Foundation’s (AVHF) second annual Healthy Journey Symposium putting a spotlight on healthy aging.
The event takes place the evening of February 20, 2025, at the Aspen Meadows Campus in the Doerr-Hosier building. Hear from keynote speaker Rick Klausner, MD, a pioneer in cancer research and former director of the National Cancer Institute, as well as an expert lineup of local healthcare leaders.
Discover why preventive actions matter as we age—and how Aspen Valley Hospital (AVH) is striving to help build one of the healthiest communities in the nation.
Meet Keynote Speaker and Cancer Researcher Dr. Rick Klausner
According to Dr. Klausner, although cancer research has accelerated over the last 50 years, the more we learn and the longer we live means there are more challenges to uncover.
“Cancer wasn’t a leading cause of death 100 years ago, and do you know why?” Dr. Klausner asked. “Life expectancy was much shorter. As strange as it sounds, longevity simply increases the likelihood of cancer’s appearance.”
While the possibility of getting cancer is “largely built into life itself and a consequence of living,” Dr. Klausner said there is an important silver lining: There is a significant difference between the chances of surviving cancer now than there was even 30 years ago.
By focusing on preventive actions, you empower yourself to stay well as you age and fight cancer if it develops. Age remains the primary risk factor for cancer, but Dr. Klausner emphasized the impact of lifestyle choices: “It’s a combination of lifestyle that reduces your risk of cancer, which is primarily about diet, weight and exercise.”
Join us at the symposium to learn from Dr. Klausner about the importance of prevention, early detection and how to recognize potential signs and symptoms. Dr. Klausner will also tackle common misconceptions and provide clarity on today’s treatments.
Dive Deeper Into Health Topics
Along with Dr. Klausner’s insights on cancer research, the evening will include cocktails and dinner with our physicians and surgeons. Doctors will be seated at each table during dinner so guests will be able to get to know AVH medical staff when they are not wearing their white coats. The evening will include a panel discussion moderated by Dr. Klausner featuring Aspen Valley Hospital and Steadman Clinic doctors and surgeons, as well as the Hospital’s CEO Dave Ressler.
“The Healthy Journey Symposium is a unique opportunity for our community to engage with cutting-edge health research and expertise,” said Cori Berger, AVHF board member and symposium co-chair. “We’re thrilled to bring together world-renowned speakers like Dr. Klausner and our local medical professionals to inspire and educate attendees about the latest advances in health and longevity.”
Lisa Guth, AVHF board member and symposium co-chair, added, “This must-attend event has the potential to transform lives. Whether you’re looking to prevent future health issues or optimize your current wellbeing, the insights gained from our world-class speaker and local experts will be instrumental in shaping a healthier future.”
Let’s Build a Healthy Community Together
If you’re ready to take charge of your health, then please join Dr. Klausner and AVH experts for this enriching and informative
event. You will also hear about the Hospital’s vision to foster the Roaring Fork Valley community as one of the healthiest in the nation. By emphasizing prevention, wellness and wellbeing, we’ll illustrate the science and choices behind living well longer.
“We strongly believe knowledge is the foundation of good health,” said Dave Ressler, CEO at Aspen Valley Hospital. “This symposium brings together exceptional experts to share insights that will help our community live healthier, more vibrant lives.”
The evening is a fundraiser for Aspen Valley Hospital Foundation and will include an opportunity for attendees to help the continued strength and independence of the hospital. Other doctors on the panel include Dr. Kris Alden, Dr. Catherine Chamberlin, Dr. Rebecca Laird, Dr. Alexandra Kovar and Dr. Melissa Somers.
2025 Healthy Journey Symposium
Mark your calendars and join the conversation.
WHEN: February 20, 2025
WHERE: Aspen Meadows Campus, Aspen, Colorado
WHAT TO EXPECT:
- Engaging presentations from healthcare visionaries
- Access to cutting-edge health information and strategies for living your best life longer
- Networking opportunities with healthcare professionals


health.



Photos by Steve Mundinger Photography