[Blog post written by Mark Bonnema]
Bridges
connect two points. Where an impasse exists, build a bridge and the impassable
becomes passable. Build a bridge and build a connection to new possibilities.
Ashley and
I got to cross the Golden Gate and San Francisco Oakland Bay Bridges this weekend
during our trip to Napa Valley, CA. Both bridges are incredible feats of
engineering, also doubling as beautiful works of art. The Golden Gate Bridge is
almost 9,000 feet long. It crosses the Golden Gate Straight, connecting San
Francisco with the California coast and highway system to the north. The San
Francisco Oakland Bay Bridge connects San Francisco and its neighboring city of
Oakland to the east at a length of 23,500 feet.
Uncertainty & Adventure
Crossing
these bridges was truly memorable for us. But what was even more memorable was
bridging the gap between what once seemed impossible in our life and what was
now possible once again. Six months ago, travel was not an option. Ashley did
not have the energy, stamina, or stability of lung function to allow us to fly
to, and explore new places. Travel seemed always out of reach. We were
uncertain how long it would be, if ever, that we would be able to breathe in
the air of a new place and adventure.
Many things
have gone into helping us build the bridge to possibility that now exists in
our lives again. Every day we receive encouragement and prayers of countless
friends and family. Those same friends and family work diligently at helping
raise funds and coordinate events that benefit CF research. The Cystic Fibrosis
Foundation continues with ground breaking research into the next wave of drugs
that hold promise to correct the defects caused by CF. Also, at least weekly,
and often much more frequently, we hear from Ashley’s medical team, checking in
with how she is feeling and verifying that her current treatments are helping
her get back to health. And, of course, Ashley’s unwavering positivity and
determination have all served as cables of a truly incredible “bridge.” A “bridge”
that has helped Ashley and I to span the gap between dreaming and reality: realizing
all the great possibilities in life.
Reality for Today
Our weekend
was a dream turned to reality. It felt so right to be out traveling again.
Thank you to each and every one of you who contributed to the months of work it
took to make this a possibility again, and for the special people who made this
very weekend happen.
Never
underestimate the power of your hope and your actions, no matter how large or
small. What may seem like a small act today may become part of the bridge that
leads to a new possibility for someone tomorrow. Build on!
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