I’m a firm believer that we can accomplish any goal we set our
minds to—no matter how big.

In 2004, with little outdoor experience but much determination, I hiked
the entire Appalachian Trail from Georgia to Maine. I met a number of
amazing people and learned a lot about myself along the way. It was the
trip of a lifetime for me and a great accomplishment.

However, I was mentally and physically exhausted as hiking over 2,000
miles carrying my home on my back can take its toll.

Little did I know that as time went on, my memory of the bad times
during the trip—pain, fear, exhaustion—had become dampened. All of the
wonderful views, people and triumphs along the way have stayed fresh in
my memory. I didn’t understand it when I met others on the trail who
were hiking it for the second or third time until now. As difficult as
it was, I fell in love with long distance hiking.

The Pacific Crest Trail starts in California at the Mexican
Border and runs over 2,600 miles through the U.S. and crosses into
Canada. Armed with a little more knowledge and experience this time,
I’m planning another thru-hike. Although walking from Mexico to Canada
should be enough of a feat, I knew I wanted it to be something more…

CLICK TO SUPPORT MEGAN ON HER HIKE!

My goals this time around are two-fold:

1. Make it to Canada on foot and

2. Help to raise money and awareness to promote better
prevention, treatment and a cure for ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease.
Please help me support my friend Barry Winovich and others like him to
find a cure for ALS. Everyone has the ability to make a difference in
some way and every dollar helps.

I know that Barry will be an inspiration to me during the tougher times
along the way for his ability to stay positive despite the struggles he
faces. He’s kept his sense of humor and upbeat attitude despite not
being able to take care of the simplest of things we take for granted
like being able to hold a cup to take a drink.

I’ll be grateful for every step I take, especially if it may
help others to have a better quality of life. I promise to do
everything I can to keep walking to help support this cause and invite
you join me along the way through my journal in the hopes you’ll give
your support with a financial contribution to Bright Side of the Road.

CLICK TO SUPPORT MEGAN ON HER HIKE!

- Megan “Burnie” Shumaker