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...
