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Andrew Burbank in the Trekker
Deborah Margolis ( pink hat in front ) celebrates reaching peak of Rockerfeller State Park
BY ANDREW BURBANK From my experience , life with a wheelchair has not been easy , but I can do many activities on my own . When I was eight years old in 2004 , that summer was special because I got to be away from my parents , and I have changed a lot because of that time . Seventeen years later , I have achieved an unusual goal as well : an unbelievable “ accessible hike ” thanks to Access Israel and the Paratrekker !
Jamie , Omer and their colleagues worked hard to make this experience unforgettable ! My experience on the trail was extraordinary because the Team gave me an opportunity to be involved in a way I would not have been previously . Examples included going down to the river , being able to hike alongside my friends from Chapel Haven and having Shir help me be supported with a big blue cushion . It meant a lot to me to be able to get to the top without my parents , which I was appreciative of . This moment will remain in my brain forever !
In conclusion , an “ accessible hike ” is something I have always imagined myself doing . If people are interested , I would encourage them to try Universal Expedition at least once in their life . It is incredible ! Happy traveling !
BY DEBORAH MARGOLIS I love showing people that I can do things that they think I can ’ t do . Sometimes I have to show myself that I can do things that I am not confident about accomplishing . Hiking in the Universal Hike with Friends of Access Israel is an example that I wasn ’ t sure I could do and people may not have expected me to do . It is a confidence boost proving that you can accomplish anything that you set your mind to doing and can show people that you can do things that people think you can ’ t do .
Best of all , with the Paratrek Trekker , a wheelchair accessible for hiking , my friend with physical differences could participate . I especially like that it takes a team to use The Trekker because it is more fun to work together and enjoy the amazing sights on the hike together . I got to ride The Trekker and I felt like I was the queen of the universe .
The Universal Hike is not just about walking . It takes planning , like packing and physical fitness . I stayed in a hotel by myself for the first time , that took confidence and skill too . If given the opportunity , I would love to join another Friends of Access Israel adventure .