Waking up early and in a melancholy mood. Bittersweet to be done and off a schedule of putting miles in, yet not wanting to leave this place. This was the last time it would be all of us together out here. Knowing my friends and their organizational skills I was expecting a few people at the riverfront in Athabasca.
Last morning photo together!
Around the fire in the morning we did a debrief of high, lows and takeaways from our trip. Everyone had enjoyed themselves beyond measure out here.
People often ask me why I would want to be out here, no campgrounds, no amenities. Well, there's no people also. I'm an extroverted introvert who excels in the solitude of the wilderness.
I thought we had about 50 km left at most, so off we went on a cloudy overcast morning. It was unfathomable that the weather was perfect for ten days of paddling. It's unheard of. I attribute this to the blessing Nand bestowed on this trip. Believe in it or not. If you believe in anything is the important part, especially yourself.
This trip seemed impossible at the start and I thought maybe my goals were bigger than my ability. However, it is possible. I'm Possible is literally the words that makes up impossible. Taking that power and turning it into possibilities is where our world is starting to fail. Resilience and belief in ourselves is being eroded over time.
Mental health is the number one factor that affects everyone it doesn't matter race, religion, status or gender. We all know or care for someone who struggles, and if you think you don't then you just aren't aware of it yet.
I hope the River Of Hope gave you a glimpse into the struggles and triumphs that happen in a worthwhile journey. Most importantly I hope you realize it wasn't by myself, there was an army of support behind me to make this happen. Ironic that also is what it takes to overcome our mental health struggles as well. We cannot do life alone.
This paddle was to raise money and awareness for mental health, these phenomenal women in this photo raised $1000 at the riverfront selling hot dogs and that money is now being put back into our small town towards Suicide Prevention Workshops this September.
These two guys kept me sane on the river.
My one regret was not getting a good photo with my husband and his uncle in the boat. Guess I'll have to this year!
Finished! 663 km, 10 days, 1 SUP, countless support from so many people = 1 Happy SUP'er
Follow along this year as I paddle 300 km from Fort McMurray To Lake Athabasca solo with my super jet boat support crew Trevor and Uncle Dan!
Bonus Blog: Here
Sending You Love N SUP,
Lisa Stocking
Owner Paddle Athabasca
CANRVRSUP River 1 Instructor