Dear Friends,
When Kyle Kirby volunteered to hike the Appalachian Trail in honor of Friends of Barnabas, everyone I talked to was completely amazed by the dedication of Kyle to attempt this amazing feat. To know how much the children of Honduras have impacted his life was inspiring for everyone who heard his story. Kyle hiked over 100 miles in snow and ice, and we prayed for his health and safe journey.
As is the case with many of us who travel to Honduras with Friends of Barnabas, the original plan isn’t usually how things end up. Very often due to circumstances and blessings along the way, original plans can change. But we know that God’s plan is often very different from our plans. And God’s plan is usually something more wonderful and powerful than we ever imagined.
Kyle has had to temporarily come off the trail and stop his hike, due to trouble with his knees. He is back home in Virginia, getting help for his knees and his overall health. He is disappointed about needing to stop for a while. I am sure you all will join me in assuring him that we still admire and honor his commitment to help the children, despite the temporary delay.
Kyle has received medical attention from Gray Cook, Linwood Cook’s son, who is an Orthopedic Specialist. Gray feels that Kyle needs to step back and get some serious help on allowing his body to heal. All of us who have been supporting Kyle on his hike are in full agreement.
So the story is changing for now, and here's how you can help! We have already received offers from people who would like to go to the Trail and hike in Kyle’s place. Ronnie Dillon is the first, and he started off today where Kyle left off, near mile marker 110 in North Carolina.
If you are interested in hiking a portion of the trail for Kyle to help move the GPS north, please let us know! We are reaching out to hiking clubs and scouting clubs and anyone who might have an interest.
Many of you may want to contribute but you're far away, or you may be unable to take off work or get away to walk the Trail. We are developing a system to track miles and collect steps wherever you are, to pitch in and donate a mile for Kyle. Stay tuned for more information.
We still need your support to reach our goal of $50,000. Every dollar you donate will go directly to helping children in Honduras, such as buying medicine or paying for medical treatments.
Above all, you can pray for Kyle and for his continued healing.
The Lord knows how this story will grow and change from here into something even more beautiful than before. I invite you to be a part of it.
Blessings all –
Mary Beth
Mary Beth Sams
President, Friends of Barnabas
