Day 19 – Embracing the Finish Line

This day didn’t begin like any other on this journey. Today was different. If all went well, this would be my last day riding. One part of me was filled with excitement—finishing the East Coast ride was within reach. But another part was anxious, wondering if I could really make it to the end. I set out around 8:15 AM, and by the first hour, I had already clocked almost 10 miles. Adrenaline was surging through me. By 10:20 AM, I hit the 20-mile mark, faster than I’d ever gone on this trip. And at 11:15 AM, I arrived in Key West. Almost another hour later, I reached the Southernmost Point buoy . By noon, it was done.
For now, I am deeply grateful to announce that I have completed my Journey for Brain Injury Awareness—a 19-day, 620-mile trek from Ft. Clinch, FL to Key West, FL. But this journey was never mine alone, and there are so many people to thank.
First and foremost, I thank God, who blessed me with the strength, clarity, grace, and safety needed to complete this mission. Without Him, this wouldn’t have been possible. To my incredible wife and family, who have been my unwavering support during both my recovery and this journey, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your love has been my anchor.
To my fellow brain injury survivors, I felt your presence with me every step of the way. You helped me push through the loneliest moments and encouraged me to keep moving forward after my strokes. You reminded me that I’m never alone on this journey. Thank you for your support, not just in spirit but in the countless ways you encouraged me along this trek.
And to all the wonderful people I met along the way, thank you for listening with open hearts as I shared my story of living with a brain injury. Your kindness, patience, and compassion have meant more to me than words can express. Together, we’re raising awareness and spreading hope.
What’s next? Honestly, I don’t know yet. But I do know this: it will be another step forward. My focus is on the future, on the possibilities ahead—not on what could have been if I hadn’t experienced the injury. This journey has taught me to embrace where I am and to keep moving forward, with purpose and hope