Wilderness Adventure Challenge

Joel Dalton created his own personal ultramarathon by traversing the length of Isle Royale National Park -  forty-four miles -  in a single day late on September 9th, 2010 to raise awareness and funds for ALS research.

Though LITERALLY a walk (and run) in the park, success was not easy – at least this first time.  Forty-four miles of rocks and roots presented risks to footing. Crazy moose risked delay in the day and in the dark.  Hungry wolves… were nothing to fear.  But going solo, he had to carry a pack with food, fluids, clothes and supplies in case an emergency camp became necessary.  He was alone in this official National Wilderness, out of contact, until he met his brother at the finish in the dark.

This effort served as a sort of metaphor for Bob Schoeni’s ALS diagnosis – 44 was both the number of miles to be hiked and Bob’s age when he was diagnosed.  And, though Bob and Joel both receive support from others, a large part of their efforts – Joel’s for a day, and Bob’s every single day – must be handled largely alone: dealing mentally with the unknown immediate future, moving forward while being careful to remain healthy and avoid disaster, and maintaining (or creating) the will to carry on when things are toughest – either mentally or physically.

Please recognize Joel’s effort – and the daily effort off all of those affected by ALS – by donating at Joel’s fundraising page. Thank you!