Day 8 - October 13th
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The chime of my blackberry alarm dragged me roughly from sleep at 5:00 a.m. Today was the day I had been dreaming about since January, only things weren’t playing out in reality as they had in my head. Today I finally made it to Machu Picchu, but I didn’t get there by the power of my own two feet, as I’d planned.
Juan and I boarded the bus at 6:00 a.m. and so began my trek to Machu Picchu. As the bus wound its way through hairpin turns and breathtaking vistas, I couldn’t help but feel a bit melancholy. I’d had every intention of walking through the sun gate with the others, not meeting everyone on the other side. I trudged up the countless stone steps, having to stop far too often to catch my breath, with a peculiar mix of heavy heart and elation for my fellow trekkers. I was the only one who gave up on the journey, and it’s really not in my nature to raise the white flag.
I sat impatiently at the end of the trail, convinced that we’d arrived too late to meet the group. After what seemed like hours, I finally heard the refrains of “Love Hope and Strength” from the summit of the mountain and my heart simultaneously soared and broke in half. They finally came down the mountain, tired and triumphant. Their jubilance was tangible as they crossed the finish line and I saw their faces truly light when they saw me waiting for them at the base of the trail. Mike and Jules were the first to greet me, enveloping me in a fierce hug, which brought tears to my eyes. I lost count of how many followed. I told them all how proud I was that they had made it. So many people told me how brave I had been to turn back on the trek but I hadn’t felt brave at all.
I spent the afternoon exploring the wonders of Machu Picchu, still feeling somewhat melancholy, but it didn’t really hit me until we finally sat down to lunch. A photographer had taken pictures of us as we started on the Inca Trail and while I don’t remember the wording verbatim, the gist of the message was “congratulations for surviving the Inca Trail”. The rest of my group had their pictures signed by our guide while I really felt the anguish of being the only one who didn’t make it.
I left that lunch feeling incredibly low and the cloud stayed over my head until well into the evening. I happened upon some fellow trekkers in a bar in Aguas Calientes and followed them up yet another steep hill into a watering hole where I saw most of the team assembled at a long table. I was truly overwhelmed by the reception I received. So many people told me how brave I was, how they admired me for my decision and it struck me that I was the only one who was disappointed in myself.
I may be taking a bit of literary license by jumping ahead to October 14th, but I wanted to share the happy ending. Today I trudged back up the maze of impossible stone steps to overlook the breathtaking vista of Machu Picchu and I was afforded the opportunity of a lifetime. For five years, I have been writing a letter in my head to the doctor who told me I didn’t have a shot in hell of being here because my odds of surviving Stage IV colon cancer were “nil”. He offered this unsolicited insight in the presence of my three-year-old son and I have been ready to serve him a steaming hot dish of crow since 2003. I had the sheer pleasure of telling that doctor exactly what I thought of him and flipping him the bird on film, with Machu Picchu in the background. I really hope he sees it.
Although my journey veered off the path for a couple of days, I have come away absolutely inspired. The love and support of this remarkable group of people has completely overwhelmed me and I am forever changed for the better having known them. To everyone at Peru Rocks, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. You have truly touched my soul.
Tracey Callahan
Aguas Calientes, Peru
October 13, 2008
Hi Annie
With a friend who just hiked the Inca trail. We’re checkin out your pics! Wishin you no blisters or revenge of the Inca! “Wow..alot of steps..up and down, huh?” says my friend. Happy trails! xoxo Ang
Hi Kathy. It was good to see you in a picture…..looks like you are having fun. Hope your making out ok. Prayers from here for you……..Luv, LC
Hi Kat
Great pictures! We hope that you are still having a good time and that your feet do not ache too much! Get one of the lads to give you a foot rub at night!!
It was Paddington’s 50th birthday yesterday, so we have drunk tea and had marmadale sandwiches in your honour!
keep tekking!
dxxxx
To ALL who have given hope to a cancer patient through prayer, by volunteering, giving financially, giving medical care or through research….A dad and mom are blessed because of you! D&L
WELL DONE ALL YOU INTREPID FOLK. IVE ENJOYED THE PHOTOS,IT LOOKS A LITTLE DIFFERENT FROM THAT WRETCHED DAY ON SNOWDON THIS YEAR INSPIRATIONAL THOUGH IT WAS.HOPE NICK’S KEEPING HIS END UP,AND I’M SURE HE IS.REGARDS AND ‘courage’, LE DERNIER CABILLAUD.
Hi Nick
Just checking out all the updates. Very different scenery to the trip last year. Hope you are enjoying, if that’s the right word, the journey. Yvonne
Hi George,
I hope you’re looking out for space ships. If they come around tell them you cannot go, you have a mission to accomplish. Have them check in with Daniel & Suzy. I think I’ll wait awhile yet.
Enjoy your trek with a full heart and soul. I’m certain you are having many wonderful emotional moments with all the trekkers. Remember me when you are at the hot springs!
Love, Mom
To Vickie Wise…hey Vickie…hope you are having a great time…I am thinking about you…and I am very proud of you…you are in my prayers…miss you in Arkansas…gt
Gary!!!
Hope the hike was great! I am sure it was quite hard…!!
XOOX
-Em
Hi Lyn! Hope you’re enjoying the Hot Springs and resting up. We went to Beth and Daves for supper and a visit with the kids. I got the peru rocks site for them on their computer. Beth wrote you a note and sent it in, but I haven’t seen it yet. Amanda and Aaron miss you and send you hugs. Keep up the good work. We look forward to more pictures on the site when you all get back to civilization. Love, Mom
Hi Merc, saw your husband last night. Daryl & Art went to the Hawks game last night. Heard about your toes - so sorry, but I’m sure hubby will take care of them for you. Keep the spirit and can’t wait until you get home. Love Anna
Nick
You may get this twice, but don’t worry I haven’t lost it (er, yet). Just that previous one Eric hasn’t moderated (I’m watching you, Mr Admin - haha!)
Hey you, have a great show tonight - will there be Titties & Beer I wonder?!;-) - and a triumphant finale in Lima. You rock!
Thank you for showing us the strength to go that one step further. Think of us, as we’re thinking of all of you.
Come home safe.
Lx
Vic & Julie,
Hope everyone is healing! I’m very proud of everyone who made the trip and can’t wait to hear about it!! Or to hear from you.
God Bless
Love you,
Billy Bob
Hey Tracey! I figured today I would attempt humor for your message. Imagine these blonde ladies are us…ha.
Two blondes are walking down the road when one says, “Look at that dog with one eye!”
The other blonde covers one of her eyes and says, “Where?”
Boo! Hiss! Well, even a “dumb blonde” joke might make ya smile. You’ve got us all smiling over here!
Hi mom i can’t waoit to see you and i told mrs. Dunven that you will be home on Saterday and i love sooooooooooo much i am going to look at the pics i alosew saw soe kids i love vthe pics love JORDY
Hey Cy, I bet if there was anyone letting the spiders crawl all over him, it was you! You’re lookin’ too cute in your matching orange hat, scarf, and sock ensemble - makes it easy to pick you out! Couldn’t you find leggings to match?
Ringo Starr says he has no time for fans, and is going to start ripping up all his fan mail - hope you’ll always have time for us to tell you we’re thinking of you, proud of you, and support you in your achievements! I’m sure the trek has been grueling, but inspiring, and will feel like it’s over too soon, so enjoy the last few days!
C
Hi Laine,
Hope you are enjoying yourself! I am sure you have some amazing photos to share with everyone. I bet you have lost 20lbs after all your walking, go girl! Kevin and I are so proud of you for this wonderful accomplishment.
XOXOXOX
Alisha & Kevin
Hey Merc, sorry I didn’t post the past few days but things got busy here. Anyways, you’re still in my prayers for a safe trip . Just wanted you to know we are still rooting for you. sue and family
Hello Lyn Nelson-
Did I spy you in a photo standing next to Mike Peters with a large tan hat on? Has he and Cy learned of the stalkerazzi? lol! Truthfully I am harmless - Persistent at times but harmless!
Now twist their arms for the last few days to have a “rock the seas” concert and some more New Jersey and NYC shows. I will shine everyone’s climbing boots if it come’s to fruition! Maybe even cook a normal meal so you don’t have to eat anymore Alpaca meat! Okay I made too many jokes as it is 2 am here and there is an animal or something climbing around my backyard deck. Maybe the Incan Gods are angry with my joking!
To all the trekkerss - After learning there are tarantulas there, I am no longer envious of your journey! I also hear that there are Anaconda and other lovely reptiles and scorpions. Don’t bother to bring me home any pets! Can’t wait to see what Cy will paint on himself this time! Has to be symbols from the Incas, I love the music of the Andes by the way. I have a tape entitled “Fire Journeys” with using all the Peruvian sounds. Hope you are enjoying the live versions! Wishes for continued safety and fun on your last few days! - Sherri Maloney from New Jersey also known as Rockerchic at the message boards of The Fixx and the Alarm.
Aden,
Looks like you are about to wrap up another incredible and rewarding journey. Stay safe.
Dad
Jules,Mike
Great job guys - keep going - nearly done!
Really enjoying the photos and diary entries!
Mike how ’bout that book? !!!
Take care,
steve leicester
btw love the clash tshirt!
Kathy,
A job well done. Congratulations on your climb and for your support of the peoples of Peru.
Hi Vickie, I check the site daily and keep looking for a glimps of you. Hope you are enjoying the entire journy; I just wish I could have been there with you!
Love and miss you!
B
Hey everyone, What a wonderful adventure you all are having! I really have enjoyed reading the journal entries and viewing the pictures. I wish I were there, but I guess this is the next best thing. I have truly been moved and brought to tears on several occasions and so want to thank you all for what you are doing. We lost my mother in law to cancer several years ago, along with a good friend of ours recently, your strength and determination truly give us hope!
Heather and Jamie,
WOW! You guys are such an inspiration.
It looks beutiful. Hope you are having a good time and I will pray for a safe trip home for all. Good job and I still can’t wait to hear all about it.
Tawny
Looking forward to seeing you soon. Have rearranged our carnival work time on
Friday so that we can actually pick you up at the airport. Sleep on the plane because we have lots of questions.
Loren thinks one of the children looks like Jasmine. Glad you and Vic had each other. Can’t wait to see your
photos. Love, hugs and kisses.
To Canada above: I was going to post a very grumpy blog about it being ‘just a finger’ but please go back and watch the earlier podcasts and read this day’s journal and you will see the context. (and hey it is just a finger
To Tracey re. same pic: you go, girl
Tracey,
Go tell it on the mountain!! You go girl!
Have a safe trip back to DD land.