By: Kim Ann Wardlow, Executive Director
Post 1 of 3 recapping the 2026 Canes, Tails and Trails event
I first met Kijuana Aftersight’s inaugural Audio Trekker hike. At the time, she was still feeling many of the effects of her stroke. While hiking wasn’t yet possible, she loved being in the mountains, soaking up the fresh air, and connecting with others.
Fast forward to our Canes, Tails, and Trails event. Before the hike, Kijuana and I shared a breakfast burrito and caught up on life. As we talked, we discovered some fun common ground—we both grew up singing in choirs and playing the organ!
The biggest difference was how much her health had improved. Feeling stronger and more confident, Kijuana planned to hike part of the trail. She shared that it’s easy for her world to feel small at times, limited to her neighborhood and a handful of nearby communities. This event offered something different: a chance to explore a new place, meet new people, and connect with other blind individuals who shared similar experiences.
Accompanied by her sighted guide, Kijuana hiked as far as she wanted before returning to enjoy lunch and live music from Ruckus in the Alley. The day was filled with smiles, laughter, great conversations, and plenty of joyful moments—a wonderful reminder of the power of connection and community.