Donna Teel Brown's Page

Donna,

I am not doing the Trek this year. Steve Doczy-Bordi has great information about the routes of the ride going back to 911 and before. My wife thought you might do a "flat Stanley" idea with your kids except maybe a "riding Rufus". This ride will bring tears to your eyes every day. You will meet great people from all over the world. I can put you in touch with Irish EMS folks who have done this in the past and can give you great perspective. As one of the older riders and one who has been involved since the ride was resurrected in '05 I have been struck by the giving spirit of this profession. No one makes much money but they are willing to put their lives on the line daily. They work tirelessly, no pun intended, and have been the forgotten service in many ways when compared to fire and police. You should ask them their stories. An imovie would be a great way to do it. Ask them who they ride for and why they ride. Ask them why they become involved in EMS. Ask them about the colleagues who have died in the line of duty. It is a big family and you immediately become part. In my mind the muddy angels have always been the fallen but this group gains strength and comfort from the moniker and it binds them together. The ride itself is no harder than the Trek except the two years I made them climb up onto the Skyline Drive in the Blue Ridge of Virginia. You'll have a great time. Most do, even when they suffer. I will miss the last 2 days because my son graduates from law school on the 21st. I look forward to meeting you. Maybe we can arrange a training ride or two if the weather isn't too bad.

Ted

Donna,

My wife Mary is a retired teacher. We wonder what grade level and subjects you teach and to whom you may have to make a presentation. There is almost more educational meat on this ride than on the Trek which I have done 10 times. We are traveling today but we would be happy to help.

Ted