Nearly 6.5 years later, I've met dozens of wish kids and wish families, and their stories and courage continue to fuel my passion and inspire me to want to do more. This year, "doing more" is becoming even more personal, as I've accepted the challenge of becoming a WISH HERO by raising a minimum of $5,000. This TBC program has been a game-changer for Make-A-Wish Alabama, and as much as I've enjoyed organizing and promoting this event for the last five years, I can't wait to be on the trails training and fundraising alongside my fellow hikers again this year, many of whom have already become lifelong friends. 

I have been blessed with two beautiful and healthy daughters. This is no longer something I take for granted, and so this year I'll be hiking with gratitude for the health of my own children. And I'll be hiking in honor of and in memory of the many wish kids who have changed me forever. For Anna. For Bryce. For Suki. For Hayden. For Henrietta. For Charlie. For Ian. For William. For Erin. For Hannah. For Shelton. For Alyssa. For Ethan. For Khushi. For Analeigh. For Easton. For Katie. For Braxton. For Kimberly. For Malea. For Melody. For all of the wish kids and families who regularly show more courage by breakfast than many of us will ever show in our lifetimes.