Well I started out on the trail on the 18th and basically made it to Dicks Creek Gap. I was hiking with "OGhostWhoWalks" and as we were making our decent to the road to get into Hiawassee I hit a leaf-covered rock and turned my ankle all the way over. The Doctors in town said that I have a severe high ankle sprain and I have to wear a brace for a week or 2 and I can't carry a heavy pack for 4 weeks. I couldn't be more disappointed but after talking to alot of people like Mala, Baltimore Jack and Nightwalker I'm told that it's just part of the game and not to let it bother me too much. I'm having alot of trouble not letting it bother me though because my wife who I thought would be disappointed for me is actually disappointed in me. She is a really great marathon runner and trains more than anyone I've ever met. She feels that this is my fault because I didn't train enough to help myself avoid injury. Apparently if I would've trained more that rock that I never saw just wouldn't have been there. I guess I'm just venting to you guys and I'm sorry for that but I wanted to know if there are others out there that have had similar injuries that have kept them from being able to finish the trail? I'm just trying to make myself feel better about the situation I'm dealing with. Thanks guys.