Journal

My Heart Felt Reflections After Walking 500 Miles from California to Arizona

May 19, 2025

It's hard for me to believe that I've already walked more than 500 miles! Looking back at some of the video footage, including the drone shots which show the incredibly beautiful landscapes and long stretches of roads, memories flashed before me. The small towns and settlements each with their unique features and charm. But what has been most impressive have been the people I've met. As soon as they learn what I'm doing and why, they are immediately interested. Everyone identifies with cognitive decline and Alzheimer's, either because a family member has been affected, or sometimes they admit they are personally experiencing symptoms of memory loss. A runner stopped me as I was crossing the Colorado River bridge. He ran across America twice and even ran the perimeter — he is so much younger and fitter than I am. He hugged me, wished me well, and made a small donation with all the cash he was carrying! Everyone who hears about the walk wishes me well. Sometimes people see my support van with the placards about the walk, they honk their horns, and wave.

Several people have stopped along the highway and offered water. Others offer rides, which I kindly refuse. We spent an amazing evening with a group of people in a settlement of RVs and tiny houses at DeAnza Springs Resort in Jacumba Hot Springs. A magical place tucked between mountains. People come from all over to enjoy the hot springs. A long-term resident, a vivacious woman in her late 60s, married to a Sicilian, regaled us with stories. Two friends rounded up the group. One was a gentleman of around 70 suffering from cancer. The love and support of his friends was palpable. Sadly, he was still smoking. The other gentleman was also ill with diabetes and other ailments and was still smoking. What was striking was the closeness and love expressed by their neighbors. Truly an example of what the word community can mean. We sat on their patio, wine and beer were offered but not accepted. Clearly, they were happy and having fun. Loving their life despite their challenges. They asked many questions about how I have reversed my symptoms. They are following me on Instagram.

Further down the road, I walked into what I thought was an antique shop, but learned it was a collection of objects of art. The owner, an artist, had turned castaway junk into beautiful art. People everywhere are kind and express intense interest in the purpose of my walk. The walk through the Apache Indian Reservation took 3 days. Two Apache sisters driving past me turned their car around to take a photo with me. I will treasure that photo. Another young Apache man stopped me and asked how far I was walking. When he heard, he said he was going to pray that I would be safe on my journey. I thanked him and said I could use his prayers.

Each day has been an adventure, convincing me that my journey is worthwhile and having an impact on those people I meet.

Until next time,
Judy