Hikers with Parkinson’s live large
Pass to Pass hikes kick into high gear July 18! People with Parkinson’s are hiking approximately 30 miles over six days with help from support hikers and pack llamas.
I am not hiking this year because life is happening in my house and I chose to let someone on the waiting list have the incredible experience I have had the last three summers.
As a board member I am updating the blog during the hikes and helping with donor acknowledgements. I may also help out at a starting or ending trailhead.
Last week Pass to Pass did something new: day hikes in Mt. Rainier National Park for Parkinson’s people who are less physically able. Early indications are the experiment was a success!
Through August 21, seven more teams will be hiking on sections of the Pacific Crest Trail in Washington and a section of the John Muir Trail in California. The California hike is particularly impressive: 80 miles over 11 days and no pack llamas.
This year Pass to Pass is serving nearly 80 hikers from across the U.S. and has grown since initially offering one hike in 2016.
Oh, if you are so inclined, donate to Pass to Pass. This group is a volunteer-run 501(c)3 nonprofit and has been a significant part of my journey since my young-onset Parkinson’s diagnosis in 2014.
As a Parkinson’s hiker, participating in a Pass to Pass hike is like showing up and being taken care of by favorite uncles. As a board member, I know the logistics that go into making that happen are mind numbing. Thanks to everyone who supports that in some way!
Photo: Me at Dewey Lake on my 2021 Pass to Pass hike.
