Re: [at-l] Wow! My original intro and ADA

["W F Thorneloe, MD" <thornel@ibm.net>]

I hope that other hikers aren't a significant obstacle. Often people assume 
the worse of others, particularly when there is something different about 
the situation. Your note elicited that response.

I have no idea whether this dream is achievable or not. I would suspect 
that review with a knowledgeable PT or trainer is in order. Much depends on 
your specific illness and circumstances, as well as trail conditions at the 
time. I would expect major problems at fields of blow downs, such as near 
Justus Creek, unless you have some use of your legs. Rock scrambles would 
also be difficult, unless there are means of portage for your chair and 
pack. Many experts in the AT believe that it has become even more difficult 
in the past few years.

There is one ultimate way to find out, but I hope you research 
appropriately to avoid placing yourself or your sons in a hazardous situation.

OrangeBug
Atlanta, GA

At 07:49 AM 5/9/1999 -0400, Max Rice wrote:
>Why did I ask the question about making the trek in a wheelchair?   Well
>... the trip was conceived as a way to teach my two sons a lesson about
>life .. about how despite what may happen to us, we are still
>responsible for what we do with whatever has happened and our limits are
>primarily in our minds. They will be old enough to carry their full
>share of the gear in a couple of years and help me along difficult parts
>of the Trail. It would take us about a year and I would do a Trail
>equivalent of home schooling.  There are a thousand and one obstacles to
>such an adventure and I joined the list to identify them.

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