Blind hiker (Appalachian Trail) Bill Irwin

[Tuffus]

Bill Irwin is to date the only blind hiker to hike the entire Appalachian Trail. He passed away today of prostate cancer. He was a close personal friend, a motivational speaker and an amazing person in general. Here is an article on him and he also has written books, Blind Courage, which is my favorite.

 

http://webhost.bridgew.edu/jhuber/readings/an_historic_accomplishment.html

[tennessee01tacoma]

Wow, I'm sad I never heard of him before now.

[TrickyNicky]

I'm sorry for your loss. Reading the article is a humbling experience, seven pairs of boots, multiple ski rods and pack frames. I imagine if I went blind right now I might never learn to tie my own shoes again, much less hike the Appalachian trail.

[sigmtnman]

My condolences.  May he rest in peace. 

 

 

That is a beautiful German Shepherd Dog.  They are great animals.

[JReedEsq]

I read Blind Courage many years ago. Great book. His life was an inspiration.

[Karnage]

Sorry for your loss. I had the opportunity to hear him speak at my church when I was a teenager. He was an amazing person.

[Tuffus]

My condolences.  May he rest in peace. 

 

 

That is a beautiful German Shepherd Dog.  They are great animals.

Orient was a great dog. Bill wrote a children's book about him. My grand daughter reads it quite often and her friends love it too. "Orient, hero dog guide  of the Appalachian Trail". He autographed it for her. It's by far her favorite book.