Hello everyone. Have you ever been to The Grand Canyon? If not, put it on your list. I have had the pleasure of seeing it three times: July 1996, July 1997 and New Year’s Day 2001. In the summer, I visited the Southern Rim, looked in, sat and marveled at this physically demanding terrain, overflowing with beauty. I also felt an extreme sense of peace. During the winter visit, the Northern Rim, covered with snow, was also a dazzling sight. The Canyon is one of the most amazing things I have ever seen. Photos and stories do not do it justice. Go there. See it, and drink it in.
As I sat atop the Southern Rim (safely behind a railing), in the July sun, I longed to be an experienced hiker. Advanced enough to go down to the bottom, as I saw backpacking groups doing. I didn’t give it too much thought: even in the 1990’s, I was using a light, manual wheelchair, and I thought about the depth, changing weather, slopes, angles, danger, and my body. As I write these words, all these years later, it’s still a dream of mine to descend. I have learned that 4 million people visit the Canyon each year, but only 2% descend below the rim.
Recently, I learned that I am not the only one living with muscular dystrophy that has had this dream. I have a friend who made it come true: Anthony Castle.
The video below is worth an hour of your life. It is the story of wonderful family friends of mine: The Castles. Living in Arizona, Anthony made the journey to the bottom of the Canyon a few years ago. Supported by his parents, more than 30 friends, local volunteers and firefighters, Anthony’s dream took on a life of its own. It’s amazing. The video shows an individual with a burning desire to live a dream. A flame that cannot be extinguished; I invite you to share in this very very cool story.
Anthony is older now, and muscular dystrophy is the gift that keeps on taking. Though weaker in strength, I am happy to share that Anthony still hikes. He assembles his support teams, and explores the beauty of Arizona. In the coming months, Anthony will be presenting his point of view of how spending time outdoors has helped him live a fulfilling life. I’m proud to know Anthony and his family. The video link is below. Enjoy the ride.
Stay safe, stay awesome, and stay tuned. Remember…the majority of people on Earth still CARE.
Patrick moeschen 