View Full Version : Yesterday, My Hiking Mentor Died
Yesterday, my friend who inspired me to hike the A.T. died after a 14 month battle with cancer. Years ago, she talked me into traveling 12 hours away for a vacation and to hike the area around Mt. Minsi. She was enamored with a book by a through-hiker called "Wolf Woman." Reading that book and our subsequent day-hike on that section of the AT convinced me to move to section hiking, something my friend could not do because of physical limitations.
From now on, each mile I hike will be dedicated to Pat W. - for her encouragement, her dedication, her courage, and - her love!
gsingjane
11-12-2014, 08:48
Oh I am sorry! What a loss for you.
This shows, doesn't it, how much of a positive effect we can have on those around us, during our brief time here. A little bit of Pat will live on in you, and in your hiking adventures. What a marvelous thing, to be remembered for something so positive and hopeful.
Jane
mrcoffeect
11-12-2014, 10:40
Now its your turn to inspire someone.
So sorry for your loss. Hopefully her aspirations can be an inspiration to others, like yourself, and you can honor her memory with your hikes!
Cedar1974
11-13-2014, 21:19
I'm sorry you lost someone special to you. All I can say is now she is hiking the best trail ever.
squeezebox
11-13-2014, 23:04
Living well is much more important than how you die. A much greater time span. May she continue to live well in your heart.
Speakeasy TN
11-13-2014, 23:23
Your next Trail Magic will have a little something extra..........
Sorry for your loss
hikehunter
11-14-2014, 01:06
I am sad to hear of your loss. It is good to hear you going forward to honor your friend and mentor.
I hope you have many great adventures in honor of you mentor.
Rain Man
11-14-2014, 11:56
Sorry to hear of your loss. But happy to hear of what you gained from that friendship!
Could you tell us more about the book? I enjoy reading AT books and have never heard of that one. So far, a quick internet search hasn't revealed anything to me. If it's still available, I'd like to purchase a copy.
Rain Man
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Rocket Jones
11-14-2014, 12:32
Sorry to hear about your loss. How wonderful though, the time you had with her and the inspiration she passed along to you.