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Thread: Rescuers Find Blind Hiker

  1. #1
    Resident Numpty mountain mama's Avatar
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    Default Rescuers Find Blind Hiker

    http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,518705,00.html
    Rescuers Find Blind Hiker Who Vanished From Appalachian Trail in Good Condition

    This guy is a production editor for Backpacking Light magazine. Good thing he was experienced, well-equipped and had hiked that portion of the trail before.


  2. #2
    Administrator Rick's Avatar
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    While folks may find it odd that someone legally blind is out hiking, it's a pretty common thing. Most of the blind hikers on the AT are accompanied by guide dogs, which can add to their problems (cut paws, extra food, etc). Personally, I think it's great that someone with so profound a disability has the self reliance to become that proficient.
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    Senior Member vthompson's Avatar
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    I am glad that the man was an experienced hiker and outdoorsman. A lot of folks probably wouldnt have fared so well. I tip my hat to him for self-reliance and for his love of the outdoors and being able to do what he wants.
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  4. #4

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    Quote Originally Posted by Rick View Post
    While folks may find it odd that someone legally blind is out hiking, it's a pretty common thing. Most of the blind hikers on the AT are accompanied by guide dogs, which can add to their problems (cut paws, extra food, etc). Personally, I think it's great that someone with so profound a disability has the self reliance to become that proficient.
    I was given a Backpacker magazine subscription for Christmas. In the feb. issue they had an ad for some garment company. The sponsoree in the ad was a blind lady in her late 20's getting ready to climb Everest. Even with a sherpa's help, talk about overcoming adversity.
    If ye love wealth greater than liberty, the tranquility of servitude greater than the animating contest for freedom, go home from us in peace. We seek not your counsel, nor your arms. Crouch down and lick the hand that feeds you; and may posterity forget that ye were our countrymen.
    Samuel Adams
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  5. #5

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    This doesn't surprise me at all. Being myself legally blind it is comforting to hear of an experienced hiker who is legally blind. Though it does suck that he got lost.

  6. #6
    Resident Numpty mountain mama's Avatar
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    I was reading about this incident and was suprised to find that those who use service dogs on the trail are actually encumbered by the dogs. Having to carry food for the dog, etc. This is something I had never thought of before.

  7. #7

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    Quote Originally Posted by mountain mama View Post
    I was reading about this incident and was suprised to find that those who use service dogs on the trail are actually encumbered by the dogs. Having to carry food for the dog, etc. This is something I had never thought of before.
    That's why you get the dog a pack and let it carry it's own food and water. wolfpacks.com has some good ones, but expensive. I'm trying to pick up leatherworking to make my own packs and harnesses, but that's had to be put on hold for the time being.
    If ye love wealth greater than liberty, the tranquility of servitude greater than the animating contest for freedom, go home from us in peace. We seek not your counsel, nor your arms. Crouch down and lick the hand that feeds you; and may posterity forget that ye were our countrymen.
    Samuel Adams
    Dogs are not my whole life, but they make my life whole.

  8. #8

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    Quote Originally Posted by mountain mama View Post
    I was reading about this incident and was suprised to find that those who use service dogs on the trail are actually encumbered by the dogs. Having to carry food for the dog, etc. This is something I had never thought of before.
    That's no surprise to me. I had considered taking a dog on the trail but there are way too many problems that can occur. I think the negatives outweigh the posatives. I would rather rely on me and me alone.

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