Sometimes our lives throw us a curve, and when they do it can destroy everything we’ve built, our families and cause utter chaos in our world. Still, we must persevere, and when we do we will indeed be show our American “can do” attitude in conquering our demons, tragedies and challenges. Americana is filled with interesting people, folks who help shape our time and those who go beyond the norm, those who truly capture our hearts. Let me tell you an inspirational story of Gary Kuhre, a father, a husband and a man on a mission to raise awareness.
Gary Kuhre discovered that the family’s health care insurance did not cover Autism and the family discovered how much financial burden an autistic child cost. Rather than quitting in defeat and out of the love for his son, he dug down deep and his strength of character emerged. He decided to do something about it, yes a father on a mission willing to do anything necessary to help his son, even laying down his own life if necessary, if he knew his son could lead a normal life.
It was out of this father’s dedication, that he was willing to endure the ultimate test of devotion. One, which he was quite certain would bring awareness to Autism, indeed it was “a test of will” like no other had ever dreamed. He would walk across America from Reno to Washington DC and as you know Reno is further West than Los Angeles, due to the shape of the United States and the curvature of the Earth.
His perseverance and commitment to the cause of Autism paid off. Not only did his walk invigorate the Autism Community, but it also made headlines and prompted two standing US Senators to contact him; Senator Harry Reid of his home State of Nevada, and Senator John McCain of Arizona, who is now a Presidential Candidate. The Governor of Nevada also got involved and opened up serious dialogue. Perhaps, it was Gary’s upbringing or will to press on and never give up that prompted him on such a journey, he refused to give up on his son and now has become one of the strongest advocates for Health Insurance reform for Autism.
In a modified customized cart he set off step-by-step towards Washington DC, an estimate distance of about 5 million human strides, and although in the end he was unable to complete the entire journey on the first go around due to unforeseen circumstance, he does dream of the opportunity to complete every single step. During his quest, step after step he became even more committed than the last, the power of love for his son and family and refusal to accept anything less, a dedicated father on a mission. The results of his quest and bold statement have created a never ending forward progression for Autism awareness.
