Red Bull Coming Off the Trail

   The weather is too much for Red Bull.  He has refused to hike today, and is remaining at the State Park.  We do not disagree with this decision, considering the heat warnings that have been issued.  The temperatures remain in the mid 90's with a heat index of 103-114 degrees.

   Red Bull says there is a little store inside the State Park that has air conditioning.  He is sitting there until it closes at 5:00 pm.  He says they are going to be closed tomorrow due to the extreme temperatures.  I ask Red Bull if he would like the Park Rangers to drive him into the nearest town, or if we could contact a Bishop in the area to help him.  He does not want a ride into town, he wants to come home.  I told him to see if he can volunteer to help out in the store, instead of just sitting there.

   We had a medical emergency within our home very early this morning, and I was in the emergency room for several hours with a family member.  Red Bull called wanting to come home, I was exhausted and stressed... I told him I could not pick him up at this time.  I cannot leave the family member who has the medical situation... I finally told him to see if his brother in New Jersey can pick  him up.  It is heart breaking, but it is also dangerously hot.

   I am torn in so many ways... I believe he will always regret this, but I cannot bear to think of him just sitting all alone in the oppressive heat.  I have heard if a hiker exits the trail, but returns to complete the hike within a year it still counts as a thru hike.  I have not investigated the details on this, there are so many other things taking priority at this time.  To see Red Bull give up on his dream when he is almost 3/4 of the way finished is heart wrenching.  He has struggled so hard to get back onto the trail after his sister's wedding, two attempts, in two different states.

   Red Bull's brother picked him up at 10:00 pm this evening, and should back to his home at 1:30 am in New Jersey.

   Rest well Red Bull, rest well.


   Update:  Red Bull and his brother arrived safely to his brother's home in New Jersey at 1:30 am.  Red Bull's brother says Red Bull appears healthy and well.  His brother is going to "put him to work"  until I can pick him up next week, when I can safely leave our family member with a medical situation.  If I have anything new to share I will, but please do not expect any additional posts.

   Thank you for following Red Bull on this grand adventure!  I wish it had a grand ending... but knowing Red Bull is safe and well is comforting.

Happy Trails!