San Diego Status Update
Written by Jim on November 12th, 2008Elke and I are staying at The Pearl, a cool, 60’s modern styled hotel in Point Loma - good food too. Jeff’s friend Kurt set it up, and the owner is footing the bill. I haven’t met him yet, but I hear his name is Greg, so a big thank you to Greg, and to Kurt. After the difficulty getting through LA, it’s incredibly nice to have a good place to stay.
Some of you have noticed that the ride donation link has disappeared. The reason is that for now, at the end of the Pacific Coast Route, the ride is ending here. After LA, there is not enough to get very far. A new plan is needed. As much as I appreciate the support that many of you have provided, I think I need to go home and reorganize this effort. The money that I intended to put to this ride has not materialized, and there’s a good chance that I will never get paid for the work I did. Stuff happens. In any case, a lot has changed as a result of this ride, and I believe that I can put together a package of support from those who can benefit the most, and plan the ride much more effectively from the lessons I have learned.
What I know is that it’s important to be out here, telling the story of the JDRF, and giving hope to those who are being affected by diabetes in one way or another. So, the Big Dummy Project is not over. In fact, I think I just completed step one. I intend to regroup and finish the ride. After that, I’ll make plans to do the Atlantic Coast and the Northern Tier. I want a complete lap of the country.
There are more plans as well, things that I want to do to help fight the problems caused by diabetes in this country, but that can wait until later. For now, I just want to say thank you again, and to let all of you know how much it means to have your support and encouragement along the way. I’m writing the last few days now, so please stay tuned. Much more to come. Thanks for reading. - Jim
13
AM
Jim,
Thank you. What you have accomplished so far is amazing. I am personally grateful for myself and my son for the impact you have made. You have made a profound difference to so many people through this “project”. I know that you will continue to do that in whatever comes next.
Jen
13
AM
Jim, your decision is a smart one. Your efforts and exposure of JDRF has been an admiral one. Have a nice time in San Diego its a beautiful city. Janeanne, Billy and I were born and raised there.
God Bless,
Fred
13
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As proud of you as I have ever been of someone I know! I agree with Fred…smart and wise decision! Will continue to pray for wisdom for your coming decisions! You’ve been so faithful to what you were called to do…and that my friend, IS success!
Amy
13
PM
Hey Jim! Roger and I are both so proud of you. You raised awareness of diabetes, and have made a difference in many people’s lives, including ours… you are to be admired for what you have accomplished! We have no doubt that you will continue the adventure in the near future! Look forward to dinner when you get home.
Deb
14
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Jim, I checked out the Pearl. Looks like you are traveling in style. Rosecrans area a pretty happening with the Gas Lamp Quarters near by. I am sure that you are having a fun relaxing time.
Fred
15
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Jim, Hope you are home safely soon. I am so proud to have been able to follow along with you on your accomplishments! Over 1000 miles and so many lives touched. I am sure you will regroup and continue on. We will be looking forward to it.
Laurie
15
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I am glad that I got to tag along for the California section of your trip. You did (are doing) a good thing. I have every confidence that the trip will continue. And I am looking forward to being in from the start!!
17
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Jim,
I have to say that although your original plan did not work the way you were hoping it would, I am and I am sure that many others are very proud of your efforts to raise awareness about Diabetes. While my family had not been personally effected by this disease, it is still something that is very important to us as we hope that people will take their health seriously.
On a more personal note…My kids, Alannah, Hayden & Taylor really enjoyed meeting you at Dohenney State Beach in Dana Point on Veteran’s weekend and loved playing with Elke. =)
4
PM
Shite man, don’t sweat it. You did more than most people have done in the last however many days. Anytime you are doing something besides working for the man, anytime you are spending time outside, anytime you are spending time in clear mind/thought, anytime you are away from a soulless, sterile, computer screen or TV….well, you are doing good. You are living. In my opinion this operation is complete success. congratulations.
You’ll finish later. Finishing on schedule is way overrated. Doing things on time is for people who don’t know how to have fun.
Vol