On the road between El Hama and Kebili

80 km. went very well today, which inspires me to thank the whole team that helped me come back from that unpleasant little car accident 18 months ago.

Polly Dithmer, spouse supreme, Acton, MA: After spending a month in bed in no shape to even walk, Polly gave me a custom bicycle for my birthday. I could barely stand up for the measurements, but her encouragement got me going, and really got this trip out of the “someday” phase.

Dr. Ma, acupuncturist, Newton, MA: delicate with the needles, but not shy with some horrifyingly painful maneuvers as well, Dr. Ma finally gave me some relief from the pain that had kept me off my feet for weeks.

Dr. Harrington, chiropractor, Concord, MA: Those neck maneuvers never failed to scare the living daylights out of me, but Dr. H had that magic touch and kept me relatively functional after I got back on my feet.

MetroWest Physical Therapy, Concord, MA: A therapist from Namibia with some great techniques and a magic touch when acupuncture and chiropractia just seemed to be taking too long.

Fitness Together, Acton, MA: When going to the gym during lunch proved ineffective, I found Jason, Monica, Matt and Brian. For 8 months, 3 days per week, all I had to do was show up, eat their fruit, and do as I was told: with patience and good humor they made sure I left a physical wreck. In their hands, I finally made some real progress.

Seriously, I hadn’t ridden a bicycle in ten years or taken a bike trip in fifteen years before this trip, and I hadn’t exercised anything but my drawing and typing muscles since then either. I know I was a real project, and owe you all a huge thanks.

Entering Kebili, late afternoon