Motivation Monday: Gratitude for the Sounds of Nature

When we found out that Crystal and her husband were taking on the 52 Hike Challenge, we knew we had to share their inspiring story. You see Crystal is a cancer survivor, she and her husband are also both deaf... and they aren't letting that stop them from getting outdoors. We hope that this story helps you to be grateful, reflect, also remind you that no matter what obstacles you may face, there is always a way. Explore and stay in gratitude. Listen to the sounds of the mountains, trees and streams. - Love, Karla and Phillip

"I grew up loving nature and hiking with my parents and siblings. When I had my kids hiking slowed down.

Then I had Thyroid cancer and stopped for hiking for several years. Thyroid cancer gave me several "gifts," including Fibromyalgia, IBS, Hypothyroidism. I also have Intersitital Cystitis.

1 1/2 years ago I decided not to let cancer and my diseases rob me of life and my love for nature and hiking. I started up hiking slowly 2-3 months ago, then I started my Instagram account pink_outliving_it. That's where I found Women Who Hike and that led me to the 52 Hike Challenge. I joined both soon after.


I celebrate my cancerversary through hiking. And hiking brought me closer to God, my husband and my kids. God gave me strength through hiking. My husband also has been joining me on my hiking journey. He's gained benefits like weight loss, his love for nature grew, his love for me grew, his love for his kids grew, his love for God grew. He's very happy man now.


We're also deaf. Our deafness doesn't stop us from hiking. There are no barriers in hiking! Thank you for the 52 hike challenge! We all are grateful for this opportunity!


- Crystal R

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