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2009 Spree For All
Hiking Forms | Large-print Forms
Trail Surfaces | Share Your Story
Acme Fresh Market
Hikers on foot and those with strollers, wheelchairs, walkers and canes will enjoy each of the 14 accessible trails during this award-winning hiking series, May 1 through June 30.
To receive hiking rewards, complete five hikes – on five different trails, the same trail or any combination of trails – and submit a completed hiking form. Hikes are FREE for all participants. Non-Summit County residents pay to receive their rewards ($10 for first-year hikers, $5 for veteran hikers).
For more information, call 330-865-8065 or 330-867-5511.
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Marianne Lee of Akron
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What's Your Spree Story?
How has Spree For All made a difference in your life? Fill out our Contact Form and share your story in the "comments" field.
That's what Marianne Lee of Akron did. For years, Lee hiked three to four times per week and volunteered often for the Akron Zoo. However, an injury in 2001 and chronic back pain stopped Lee in her tracks.
Doctors discovered Lee had degenerative disc disease, which damaged the discs in her spine. It caused excruciating pain that kept Lee from everyday activities like walking and going to work. Eager to regain a normal life, she decided to fight back.
In March 2008, Lee underwent surgery and her doctors implanted a neurostimulator in her spine. The device allowed her to block pain by delivering electronic impulses to pain points. Lee was able to begin physical therapy and set a personal goal: Complete five hikes during Spree For All. "I knew completing the spree was an achievable short-term goal, since there are so many nice, flat, safe trails to choose from," Lee said.
Lee's first hike was the half-mile Overlook Trail at Cascade Valley Metro Park, and when she reached the observation deck, the view of the Cuyahoga River valley took her breath away. "(At first,) it was very hard for me physically, but it was worth it," she said with a smile.
With one hike down and four to go, Lee continued the spree until all five of her hikes were complete. Now boasting a lanyard and 2008 pin, Lee encourages others to follow in her footsteps. "Anyone can do the Spree For All," she said. "It's perfect for physical therapy patients, families – even someone in a wheelchair.
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