From our executive director: Turning challenges into progress

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The community of Yarmouth, Maine, created the 2-mile Beth Condon Pathway following the tragic death of the 15-year-old. Upon his death last fall, her father left a $500K gift to improve and expand the trail.

We all face challenges in our lives, whether it's a sickness, a bike crash, or losing a loved one. This month's e-newsletter provides inspiration and guidance through stories of people transforming their challenges into personal growth and common good. 

In Yarmouth, Maine, a recent legacy gift will help move the East Coast Greenway forward. A $500,000 donation from a father honors the daughter he lost years ago by making walking and biking safe for everyone in their community. When a drunk driver hit and killed Beth Condon, 15, as she was walking along Route 1, her community — family, friends, and the town — transformed their grief into a pathway dedicated to the teenager.

In Hilton Head, South Carolina, one of our Week-A-Year Tour cyclists who was hit by a car spent his winter focused on healing with his loving family. Chris Brigham has emerged a true inspiration for all of us: a person making the most of his life focused less on the speed of his pedaling and more on helping others and his spiritual journey. 

May we all face adversity with the clarity and positivity of these amazing people, whether our adversities are large or small. Together we can turn crises into opportunities for ourselves, our families, our communities, and the world. 

To a healthy, sustainable, and thriving tomorrow,

Dennis

Dennis Markatos-Soriano, executive director

 

Read more of our July 2019 newsletter, On the Greenway

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