10 days - his version

Name of the trip: Survive and Thrive

I was very lucky to have Taleen set up a trip for me with other cancer supporters and survivors.  All participants were under the age of forty.  All were looking to do a new physical challenge.   All were looking to see how others had done in the post treatment era.  Strong support physically, mentally and emotionally together.

Physically the trip was awesome.  (Huge thanks to VOBOC, Voyaging Out Beyond Our Cancer, for sponsoring my trip for me, and the gifts to my family!) The water level was low.  It was slow in calm areas which required much paddle work.  It was intense in rapid areas, especially when rocks were a plenty in the low water.  We usually started kayaking between 8:30 and 9:00 am and finished around 6:00 pm.

Mentally it tested how well we could communicate, improve and/or adapt to natural conditions.  The equipment we used was limited. Each of us was responsible for transporting two whole group meals and equipment for campsites.  We were responsible for taking all garbage/left overs/poop with us on the way out.  We were allowed to pee in the river.  Poop was to be stored similarily to how we pick up after a pet dog.  The enviroment was a priority  - No one was to take away from its beauty. 

I really found this mental  testing valuable as there were many last minute kayaking changes that tested communication skills and patience.  It showed how important it was to be prepared in the mornings, properly discuss approaches to river and camp concerns (nothing like thinking about rattle snakes), and ensure the team members had each others back.

Emotionally, I found this strengthening.  Our morning and evening discussions about developing personal inner thoughts strength was enlightening.  We were also given a full 24 hours to reflect on life - completely in an isolated area and completely alone.  It was rewarding experience. 

Someone from our group put together this beautiful 20 minute video of our trip.



72 km kayaking trip on the Owhyee River in Oregan.  Great group of people, amazing experience.



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A no impact trip, which meant EVERYTHING was packed up - these are 'poop' tubes.

Beautiful scenery

There were 10 cancer effected participants (survivors and family supporters) and four guides.

Water levels were low, trip was at risk of being cancelled.

My 'solo' place.  We had 24 hours of being on our own to reflect, come up with a mission.  Received letters from home this day.

Tackling some rapids.  The trip was a physical challenge.

petroglyphs

Sunset!  Amazing trip!  Missed my family - but would do it again in a heartbeat!