Teenager, Hunter Gandee, walked 40 miles with his brother strapped to his back, to increase public awareness about cerebal palsy, a condition which seriously effects his 7 year old brother, Branden’s mobility.
Hunter planned the walk for weeks, hoping The Cerebal Palsy Swagger would publicize the plight of persons with cerebal palsy, and increase interest in developing medical and mechanical options for increasing mobility. The 14 year old, a 155 lb wrestler, trained by lifting weights, and keeping physically fit, and active. The walk was grueling for both brothers, who nearly gave up, after 30 miles, when Branden became uncomfortable. A phone call to a good friend, who prayed for them, and changing Branden’s position, helped them finish.
Friends, other walkers, and family of the two boys accompanied them on their journey, which started at the Bedford Junior High School parking lot, in Temperance MI, where the school band performed, and the gym was crowded with people seeing them off.
Over 30 hours later, Hunter and Branden Gandee reached the University of Michigan wrestling center. At the top of the hill, a “Go Blue” banner had been raised for them, as they passed by, Hunter lifted his brother who reached to touch it, inciting a roar of approval from the crowd of well wishers gathered to watch the boys finish their mission.
Hunter commented after the trek that he was tired, but it was worthwhile, because he wanted to give something back to his brother who inspires him.
Watch Here: