Backpacking is a Community Experience

To quote Annette, “Backpacking is a community experience.”  We each committed to carrying on our back everything we needed to survive several days, as we backpacked into unfamiliar territory with people we didn’t know well, if at all.  She was right; we were a community, we were there for each other, not only enjoying our adventures together, but, depending on one another to get the work done.  We came together in this community to support MPN research.  We were there to support Annette.  It turns out, she supported us.  Whenever someone was lagging behind or nervous or just needed a little support or understanding, Annette was there.  Numb toes, scratched legs, extra weight, holding a friend in need, cooking for a crowd, watching after little ones… Annette was there for us, keeping our community connected.   She taught us an appreciation of the wilderness and of community as well as charity.  She taught me to accept my day, with its challenges and its rewards.  She is a true inspiration to those with blood cancer and those without.  

Here's a peek into Segment 5 and family camp...

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thank you, Annette, for sharing your love of the wilderness and your gift of bringing together a community. ~~~Michelle Byars