The following is the first in an occasional series of guest blogs from friends who are hiking for me on days when I am off the trail.  First up is the Pavilon family, who hiked yesterday, July 4th. Thank you to Renie, Tom, Avery and Jay — I am glad you had such a beautiful day for a hike! I hope you all had a Happy 4th of July with your friends and family. I look forward to being back on the trail tomorrow.  Best, Rick

July 4, 2017

Happy 241st birthday to the USA! We had beautiful weather for a hike along a section of the Appalachian Trail in Etna, New Hampshire today. Our destination was Moose Mountain with its sweeping views of lakes and mountains in this part of the state.

When we think about the Fourth of July, several words come to mind: freedom, liberty, independence. Unfortunately, ALS takes all those things away from the people who suffer from this incurable disease. We hiked to support Rick’s courage and determination to beat down the cruel effects of ALS. Today we hiked for all who suffer from this devastating disease and the families who support them.

We are thankful for our ability to celebrate freedom and independence every day. We pray for Rick, Eileen, Henry and Philip and their friends who will take to the AT this summer in support of Rick and his efforts to help find a cure for ALS.

Godspeed,

Renie, Tom, Avery and Jay Pavilon