Gary Returns to the Great Smoky Mountains
For as long as he can remember, Gary has been guided by his faith and a passion for serving others. That’s why he enlisted in the military, where he demonstrated personal sacrifice through his service in the U.S. Navy.
During his time in the Navy, Gary was a physical therapist and served on a ship during the Vietnam War. He helped many wounded soldiers and supported them as they recovered physically and emotionally from their wounds. Though it was challenging to witness such pain firsthand, he was driven to do whatever he could to aid people during a traumatic time.
After returning home from the war, Gary focused on serving his community. He has been very active in his church and the American Legion. Through their outreach programs, he has volunteered his time and energy to support people in challenging times, like other veterans, individuals experiencing homelessness, and young and expecting mothers.
Gary is no stranger to challenges. He has faced a cancer diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma. Throughout his battle with cancer, Gary has found solace in his faith. He shared that he feels most spiritual when the beauty of nature surrounds him.
“I have always connected with God in the mountains,” Gary shared, “Whether by myself beside a stream or merely sitting in a rocking chair on a porch at night looking at the stars and the fireflies.”
After two years of living in remission, Gary was surprised with the news that his cancer had aggressively returned. Facing the uncertainty of his future, a dream began growing inside him.
“I realized I wanted to see the majesty of God’s creation again in a place I’ve always loved,” Gary said.
More than anything, Gary wished to return to the Great Smoky Mountains. He had experienced the tranquility and beauty of the mountains as a young boy, and the area quickly became a spiritual place that he looked forward to revisiting throughout his adult life.
When we heard Gary’s story of service and selflessness, we were honored to recognize the outstanding individual he is today and help him fulfill his wish to return to the Great Smoky Mountains.
We knew what would make the trip even more special: We sent Gary, age 73, and his dear friend Laura to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, during the city’s Fourth of July Celebration.
Watching the Fourth of July parade and fireworks together was a meaningful way to commemorate Gary’s Navy service and patriotism. In addition, the pair immersed themselves in the mountain culture and explored the delightful city of Gatlinburg. They even visited the Smoky Mountain Aquarium, where they fed stingrays.
It was an emotional and fulfilling trip on many levels. Gary and Laura had many opportunities to sit peacefully and reflect on their faith, surrounded by tranquil scenery. Together, they walked through lush forests and across a historic covered bridge, taking in the diverse plants and animals all around them.
It was a much-needed change of pace for Gary, who felt his mood lift with every new experience.
“The trip was absolutely magical,” Laura shared. “For a few short days, he got to be Gary again, not just Gary with cancer. We can’t thank you enough for making this happen.”
Our thanks go to Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, our official Hotel Provider, for their support that helps make life-changing wishes come true, including Gary’s.
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