Journal

Episode 9: Halfway to 3,000 Miles — Austin Mayor Declares "Dr. Judy Benjamin Day"

August 20, 2025

It’s hard to believe, but I’ve been on this journey for 100 days. Time moves differently when you’re walking across America. Each day brings opportunities to meet new people, see new places, and often face new challenges. I’ve just passed through Del Rio, Texas, and I’m now making my way toward Austin. The beauty and calm of sunsets refresh my body and mind, but there’s also a heaviness in the air. This region has been devastated by flooding, and sadly many lives have been lost. Even where I stand now, flood warnings are posted. It’s a reminder that nature’s power can never be underestimated.

As I walked north toward Austin, the reality of the floods caused me to reconsider my route. I had passed numerous road signs warning “Road may flood”. Rivers had risen more than twelve feet above their banks, swallowing roads and cutting off stretches of land. I stopped at the local sheriff’s office for more information on road conditions. The deputy told us the road ahead was closed and he didn’t know when it would reopen and be safe to walk on. When water is rising around you and you’re in a vehicle you have the option to turn around, but it is quite a different situation when on foot. Bowing to the acts of Mother Nature, we recalculated the route to walk eastward, avoiding the Kerrville area where we originally planned to visit. I was glad that I had previously driven through the area when I brought my RV to San Diego from the East Coast before starting my walk. It is truly beautiful country.

Walking through the Hill Country, I was deeply moved by seeing the many green ribbons tied to fence posts, storefronts, and trees lined the towns — symbols of support for those who had lost so much in the floods. What struck me most was how these communities grieved and stood together. Communities showed that they felt the pain of their neighboring towns and stepped up to help. That sense of shared responsibility and care is something I will carry with me. It reminded me that communities are not defined by geographic borders but by human connections and empathy.

I was thrilled when I reached Austin, halfway across the United States, with 1,500 miles behind me and 1,500 more to go. It was an emotional milestone, made even more special when the mayor of Austin declared August 4th as “Dr. Judy Benjamin Day” and presented me with a beautiful certificate. That recognition is an honor, but the absolute honor has been to walk, to witness, and meet so many interesting and caring people along my journey. From here, I’ll continue, remembering the resilience and kindness of the people I’ve met in Texas.

Until next time,
Judy