Went to cardiologist on Monday and of course he wanted to run more tests. The primary test needed was another stress test with an echocardiogram both before the stress and after the stress to try and isolate the disturbing images from the hospital. When he first said this on Monday he indicated is generally took 2 weeks to schedule the test and my heart fell. Then he realized I probably wanted to get back on the trail and so he said he would see what he could do. Turns out what he could do was pretty amazing as he managed to get me a slot in the schedule the very next day. So I went in on Tuesday and they did the echocardiogram and then had me get on the tread mill. 13 minutes later after ramping up the tread mill my heart rate was at 160 and he had me get off and they did the echocardiogram again. So, as it turns out they were NOT able to see the issues that were present in the hospital. The reason for that was not really explained other than 1 comment about how the quality of the images were better on his machine than they were on the hospital machine. At any rate, although there are more tests that need to be run, I have been told that I can continue on the trail. The further tests that are necessary to get a complete picture and complete satisfaction can be run when I am finished with the trail for this year and so I am scheduled to go back in November.

So I am free to go back and that is what we are going to do. Will travel back to Sonora Pass on Sunday and will start hiking again on Monday. YAY!!

I was complimented on my stress test results as he indicated that high school athletes have not faired as well. So that gives me great confidence.

I keep on meaning to mention that I have a new opportunity for you to feel good. A couple that I have been hiking with are hiking for a good cause and they are trying to raise a modest amount of money. The web site to check out is: Us and it hikes. Once you are there click on “The Cause” and you can read about their passion. I was personally moved because they are trying to raise money to help troubled kids. If you like the cause you can click on “Donate” and then again on the Donate in the middle of the page. You should be taken the the Project Canoe donation site. Please make sure you choose “Us and It Pacific Crest Tail Hike” as the fund for your donation. In case you do not notice this is a Canadian charity and the dollars you donate are Canadian dollars.