How River Magic Put Me on the Wave Train to Success.
by Chris Farris
My career in the United States Marine Corps as a diesel mechanic has offered many challenges. I endured an injury while removing a diesel engine that pinned my leg that changed my life in so many ways. After thirteen operations at the Veterans Administration (VA) in Palo Alto that continually interrupted my employment and lifestyle, I was recommended for a medical retirement in my 50s.
Inactivity led to depression and the diagnosis of several illnesses. But what appeared to be stumbling blocks evolved to stepping stones. Paddle life, nature, rivers and hard work led to a desire to care and protect the waterways. This encouraged me to be healthier, increased my paddling skills and to move forward to new life.
Doctors asked me to participate in a six-week treatment that would cure me of one of the three medical issues I was facing. However, I had to lose 30 pounds to qualify for treatment. I desperately searched for activities that would not aggravate chronic pain issues in my right leg. While spending my days manning information desks and volunteering 1500 hours at the VA facilities, I passed by the swimming pool and heard splashing and laughter. Disabled veterans (vets) were floating in a rainbow of colorful kayaks exercising while sitting. I was amazed and nervous.
A national non-profit, called Team River Runner (TRR), took me in as one of their own. I learned all the skills needed to graduate from the pool to river running. Little did I know I was on my way to experiencing River Magic. I made new friends. I worked with lifetime kayakers. They were gentle and caring folk who claimed they had been touched by the River Gods. Through TRR trips to the American River as well as around the country, I witnessed many other vets improve in confidence, health and overall happiness. River Magic was real and I wanted more!
I began attending nature film festivals, beach cleanups, and volunteering at river festivals and races. I was changing. I cared about the health of the waterways that I played on. Joining Bay Area paddle clubs led me to racing surf skis and sea kayaking. I trained to be a sea kayak guide on the San Francisco Bay with Environmental Travel Companions (ETC). I led trips to Angel Island for inner city schools and blind participants. I met many new paddlers on the racing circuits.
Two really motivated paddlers, Tom and Emily, introduced me to what would be the challenge that I needed to lose more weight: a 100-mile river race on the Sacramento River called California 100 (now CA River Quest). I trained hard taking numerous classes, going to the gym and paddling twice a week increasing my miles from 3 miles to 10 easy ones. On my first attempt, I paddled 60 miles and my doctor told me my lab values had improved dramatically after just one week. I was healthier, more energetic and social. The River Magic was upon me. I was overwhelmed by all I had accomplished.
Not only was I making new friends, but I learned that rivers are alive. Eddies became my place to rest and recover and plan my next move on the wave train of success. Each trip offered another lesson towards the confidence I was seeking. I gained new energy from the crystal-clear waters, and by observing the wildlife the river supports—like a loving mother. On a 25-mile training trip on our mighty Sacramento River, between Redding to Chico, I witnessed another piece of river magic—an eagle soaring on the heat rising from the river valley, swoop down, claws angled out just yards from my bright yellow kayak snagged a shiny trout glistening bright. The eagle floated with accomplishment to a cliff above to enjoy a life-sustaining meal. Each paddle brought more magic, another lesson. I saw a deer, a large buck swimming, working to reach a gorgeous doe. It reminded me of the first time I approached my love. Things worth having must be worked for—like swimming a rapid.
I was in love with paddle life and the rivers and lakes I was encountering. I met many nice folks. Tom and Emily told me all about a river advocacy group called Friends of The River (FOR) that offered a River Advocacy Training School (RATS). I was not sure if I was ready yet to become an advocate, because my computer skills were weak. I thought about it for a year. In the meantime, TRR invited me to be Chapter Coordinator for the new American River Chapter. TRR offered great training, and helpful guidance that gave me the confidence I needed to advocate to protect the rivers that saved my soul, gave me a new life focus and social outlet that I much needed. This year, I applied and trained with the RATS program.
The river provides, it teaches, it feeds, it grows food in its life-giving waters of Mother Earth. It has a purpose, it all has a soul; every rock, every plant…it is the artery that keeps Mother Earth alive. It must be protected. I am pleased and look forward to river advocacy as an RATS graduate. I am living proof the magic of the river can heal, and empower one to turn tragedy into growth and a more positive lifestyle. River Magic Is Real! Go get you Some!!!