Hike for Discovery

What would you say if I told you that you could take a fabulous hike and help cure cancer at the same time?

You might say: “Sign me up.”

Hike for Discovery is a program of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society that offers its supporters in chapters nationwide an opportunity to train for, and take a hike in a spectacular location and at the same time raise money for cancer research and other worthy LLS programs.

Hike for Discovery Events now take place in the Grand Canyon, Maui, and Yosemite. Other locales will be introduced as the program expands.

The program is based in part on the Society’s highly successful Team in Training Program that has long trained walkers and runners to participate in marathons and cyclists for long-distance rides.

But the Hike for Discovery program is not a “marathon for hikers” and differs substantially from the other sports programs. The hiker’s experience is a natural one—on classic trails in our national parklands. Further, hikers travel in small groups on a variety of routes. And although a hiker can choose to take a very challenging hike, Hike for Discovery is by no means a competition for time or a competition among hikers. Options abound for the hiker who wants a more moderate hike and an experience that emphasizes group camaraderie and exploring nature’s beauty.

Orange County has a very active LLS chapter, with many members participating in the Hike for Discovery Program. Participants have a great time getting to know local trails and getting to know each other while training for a big hiking event.

I had the opportunity to experience the Hike for Discovery Program in the Grand Canyon and can assure you that it’s marvelous experience for participants. The hikes around the rim of the canyon were breathtakingly beautiful, extremely well organized, and very satisfying to the hikers who had come from LLS chapters all over the U.S.

Cancer has profoundly touched so many American families, and there is a deep commitment to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society mission among participants on the Hike for Discovery Program. Many hikers are inspired by someone battling cancer or lost to cancer; some have battled cancer themselves. The testimonials at the banquet on the evening before the big hike are heartfelt, and often tearful.

And yet while there is some shared sadness, the overall experience for nearly everyone on a Hike for Discovery adventure is wonderfully positive and upbeat. Here’s a chance to DO SOMETHING positive. And as for the post-hike party—well, let’s just say these hikers still had energy left over to kick up their heels.

“Sign me up.” That’s what I said to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. I recently agreed to become National Hike Leader with the Hike for Discovery Program, which means I’ll be training hike leaders to help prepare participants for their hiking adventures.

So sign up to take a hike—in fact, have the adventure of a lifetime—and support the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s good work.  Find out more about the Hike for Discovery.
--John McKinney,The Trailmaster

^ top