Last January, Daniel Sims, a friend of ours from church, came to us and told us of his plan to hike the Appalachian Trail, and that he would like to do it in honor of Abby.  Honestly, I didn't really get it - -  Guess I just never thought about what that entailed, what kind of an undertaking hiking the AT actually was and truly, didn't even know where it started and stopped.  Life is crazy - before I knew it, 3 months had gone by and he was leaving to hike. 
I have thought of him, followed his progress, prayed for his safety in the time since he has been gone, and I have once again been amazed at the love showered upon Abby and our family.  He has not been far from my thoughts since he left, and his endeavor has raised more than $1800 to help defray the cost of medical bills - more specifically, the cost of travel to Cleveland.  It paid for almost all of our stay in May and most of air fare, and it will help us fund the trip for surgery again at the end of the year.

I have kept up with his progress, not only through his website and FB posts but through his Mom and Dad, who are dear friends and awesome parents :)  Today though, Daniel called and I got to hear his voice - I was totally unprepared for the emotion that has been with me all day since..  I am just at a loss for words at how what he has undertaken as a dream of his to be fulfilled as well as his desire to help Abby and raise awareness for all folks affected by this disease has impacted me.  I think that each of us has a dream - a goal or goals or something that we want to experience in life but are hampered by many things, the greatest of which I believe is fear - fear of failure, fear of realizing a dream that doesn't meet our expectations; fear of condemnation for doing something not worthwhile or frivolous - whatever it is - its all fear.  I was struck today at how proud I am to call Daniel my friend - it takes a great deal of courage to do what he is doing - - not to mention strength and stamina - its 2100 miles of walking! (not being the adventuresome sort -  -  I WILL say that I do not share his dream of that walk!)  Anyway, Daniel - I came away today with maybe a little moer courage to pursue my lifelong dream too  - you have inspired me and inspired Abby and impacted us both.  Thank you for being you, and for being willing to share your journey with us.  We love you more than you can ever know.  Safe travel, my friend.