Vicksburg, MI

We had roughly 135 registered walkers and many more that showed up that didn't register. We figure between 150 and 175 people were present at one time or another during the walk. I would most encouraged and inspired by all of those with Chiari that turned out.  I could not be more happy to say that I was part of something really wonderful. I have already made some great new friends. I have my first appointment next week at Rehabilitation Works in Kalamazoo that specializes in physical therapy for those with Chiari. They came recommended to me by two of the gals at the walk who go there. This is exactly one of the outcomes from the walk that I was looking for. I also made a new best friend. Robin from Delton with the neck brace. We talked for an hour and a half the other night. It feels like I have known her my whole life. It is so refreshing to be able to converse with someone just like yourself. We cooked hot dogs and gave them away free and put a donation jar on top of the grill. We figured that if you didn't have the funds - that you should still be able to eat. We had free water as well - donated by my good friend Randy and his sister. We gave away raffle tickets for free to all that walked. We raffled off donated prizes as well as goodies that we bought to all that had tickets to add some enjoyment for all that were there. All three of our musical entertainers came to keep the crowds entertained. Wire and Wood are my friends from Wixom (they came from about three hours away to play for us). I have gotten lots of thank you emails from all that attended. I took down names and addressed in a notebook to keep in contact with all throughout the year. We want to attempt a support group of sorts. Some of us found it therapeutic to talk to others with Chiari and share.

-- Lisa Friend

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