Winding trails, the crunch of leaves beneath my feet, epic sunsets along the horizon. Moments of clarity, gratitude and connectedness that can be difficult to find in the daily grind. Hiking has been my lifeline when life gets overwhelming. In so many ways it has transformed me from the inside out. Mind, body and Soul. Some of my happiest moments have been on the trail, enjoying the satisfaction of accomplishment, keeling over with laughter from sheer exhaustion, basking in the peacefulness of the sun’s rays, and savoring a crisp mountain breeze. The forest and trails have brought me inner peace, confidence, and both physical and mental strength.
We were driving home one afternoon from an errand when I saw the billboard for The Trail Blaze Challenge, and I immediately googled. Hiking, to “pay it forward” and raise funds for the Make-A-Wish Foundation? Count me in!
It will be the most daunting physical challenge I have taken on in my life, as I attempt to hike 28.3 miles along the Foothills Trail in one day (yes, one long day)! I am excited and more than a little nervous (I can already hear the self-doubt creeping in) but as I lace up my boots in preparation, my mind is with the children battling life threatening illness with strength beyond their years. They remind me how precious and fragile life is and inspire me to face my fears and embrace any challenges that may come my way.
In addition to the physical challenge, I have committed to raising the critical funds necessary for Make-A-Wish to grant the one true wish for each eligible child with a critical illness. I have a lofty fundraising goal, but with your help, I know it's possible. Together we can make a difference and change lives!
Did you know that Make-A-Wish has granted more than 550,000 wishes around the world? That’s a lot, yes. But right now, for every wish that comes true, two more children with critical illnesses are waiting for theirs to be granted because Make-A-Wish lacks the necessary funding. I’m fundraising for Make-A-Wish so that more deserving kids and their families can know the life-changing joy, renewal, strength and hope that a wish can bring.
Life-changing wishes are only possible because of supporters like us. A wish can truly transform a child's life, and we have the power to grant it. Your donation is beyond appreciated!
Happy Hiking!
Jenn
