It took me nine months to conquer a hill with an 100 ft elevation increase over .1 mile (17% grade - 20% at it's steepest) on my commute home. I would have to get off the bike at the steepest point. I actually thought I would never ever be able to ride up this hill.

Did it just two weeks ago several times in one week. And twice last week. Not something I can do every day and don't try every day.

I stay in the saddle as long as possible at the lowest gear and switch into lowest early. Then try to get at least 20 rotations in. If feeling good, a few more. If it even feels a bit easier on a rotation --- then success.

So keep plugging away.