Ride comes to an early end

I woke up this morning with the realization that my legs were too tired to do the climbing that was needed to get to Prescott, AZ. I also found that my left arm, hand and wrist were weaker again. There are several tasks that are very difficult to do one of the most important being shifting gears. I do not have the strength in my left hand to shift the front derailleur. In order to shift I need to reach over with my right hand to pull the shift lever and this is not a safe maneuver, not to mention being very irritating and cumbersome. I have also come to the conclusion that I will not be able to camp out as much as I had planned on doing and it will just cost too much to stay in motels etc.

I am very disappointed that I will not be able to continue the trip but even more disappointed that I may have let others down. I should have probably done some shorter excursions to see how things would go. I do not know for sure if the fall caused the neck problem or if it was from improper helmet adjustment causing me to lift my head to much. Either way, it is my understanding that permanent nerve damage is possible if I don't get it under control soon.

I guess I will have to find another way to accomplish my dream of at least crossing the US from coast to coast via bicycle. One friend says that he might be able to have his wife drive an RV from place to place, hauling our gear etc., while we ride together. It would cost a lot more money but at least I would have more time to save and plan for it!

For those who donated to the ride I will try and return your money as soon as I can. Thank you all for your support and encouragement and your donations to CAF.