Congratulations, Carrie! That’s awesome!
As for altitude sickness, I haven’t taken anything for it, so I can’t comment on that, but I can recommend spending a night above 8,000′ to acclimate at least one day before your summit. Living near sea level, the altitude can really do a number on you, and a night or two can help your body adjust.
Great advice on the water. In the Sierra Nevada, I typically carry a liter of water — because it’s so plentiful. If I know there’s a long way without water (i.e. the last few miles to the summit) I plan and bring accordingly, but you’re right — no need to carry ALL the water you’ll need the entire way.