Well I'm finally done with 3 weeks of radiation, and I'd like to thank Ben and all of you for your prayers and thoughts. You don't know what they mean when you're sitting around day to day, and thinking about the next canoe trip, or life in general.

I'm usually pretty reserved and don't let my feelings out, but let me tell you, reading the BWCA.com board everyday has kept me going, and thinking about my next trip. I have about 5 weeks to prepare for a 15 day trip to WCPP. First 8 days will be a solo, and then I'll meet up with some friends. Don't know if I'll be able to do my whole intended route, but if the endurance level isn't there, I can always make changes, and even do some base camping, fishing and exploring. In the Caribou, there are always so many things you can do.

Throughout this 3 week period, I kept up walking daily for about an hour. I didn't want it to get to me, and I still wanted to maintain some level of endurance. The last week was a tough one, but I was still able to do it. I think that goal, has kept me focused, and helped me through everything.

All in all I feel pretty good. Now I need to get packing and believe me, I'm going ultra lite weight this year. Or at least for me. Since I'm taking my dog, she's going to have to carry some of her food, but that will be good for both of us.

Thanks again for all your support. See you on the trail.

May God bless you and prayers for a full recovery. I will be in Caribou the end of June , maybe we will cross paths. Just thinking and dreaming about it is good medicine. Being there has healing power. Take care.

Each day, begins an adventure in living!

Best wishes and enjoy yer trip. I expect a report when you return.

butthead

Greg, I was in a similar situation about a year and a half ago after my heart scare. This wonderful community of paddlers sent their thoughts, prayers and cyber hugs :) and got me through it all. I'm so glad to hear that you're doing better and are getting back in the game. Best wishes going forward.

Today's medical system is amazing. Grandpa has been through a stroke and colon cancer within the past fifteen years, and this will be our third year in a row canoeing together.

Keep on paddling Greg!

Good to hear you are doing well. Do what you can on your trip and savor every moment. Wishing you warm sunny days and fair winds.

That is so great to hear. You will paddle far with the attitude you have.

I can't think of a better place to recoup than in the WCPP, even a basecamp will be good for your soul, mind and body. Don't overdue it though, if it take you 2 days to get to point B that will give you more time to enjoy the journey. Glad you kept us updated, be sure to thank Ben for...well just thank him. FRED

I can't think of a better place to recoup than in the WCPP, even a basecamp will be good for your soul, mind and body. Don't overdue it though, if it take you 2 days to get to point B that will give you more time to enjoy the journey. Glad you kept us updated, be sure to thank Ben for...well just thank him. FRED

Glad you are getting through the treatment well. Walking every day is definitely a great way to make your recovery easier. Hope you have a great trip.

Have a great trip!
My chemo left me unable to walk 20 feet due to severe anemia. I am up to fifteen minutes now. Not sure how much better it will get as my feet hurt with neuropathy but biking is fairly easy
Maybe ports will work and maybe not. There may be what my friend with pancreatic cancer calls a new normal
I've found that just noticing what goes on in the outdoors is very rewarding

Kim, you too are in my prayers. Glad you are doing what you can at this point. I hope your old normal replaces your new normal and you can get back to tripping. I like your attitude though. Take in what you can for now.

Greg, keep planning. I have some dog packs in my truck.

Both you and Kim are great inspirations. I have felt like throwing in the towel for this year. But I'm going to give it my best shot. My surgeon is confident he can fix me up to go yet this year. Hard to be positive at this point. But I don't know what else to do. I'm not going to let trip partners down. I'll have people like you guys to thank when I get home.

Greg...I am so happy to hear you are well enough to take a canoe trip, and to the wilds of WCPP no less. Go get 'em my man.

Ben and Kim....keeping you both in my thoughts and prayers. Get well soon.

Go for it and enjoy this next trip to the max. You are an inspiration as you have achieved a milestone in your recovery process with completing radiation yet still pushed yourself with endurance walking. I can only imagine how you dealt with getting through that last week. You are included in my prayers.