John R Kelly
Manic Tramper
John R Kelly
After a near-death experience, I now look at life much differently and, as a result, I'm taking a drastic turn! This next year I am leaving the security of a job to go on a spiritual journey. I will start by tramping Europe all over from the Alps in France all the way to the northern parts of Norway. After that, maybe I'll bike the country or become an Alaskan fisherman or something. I want to share my story along the way...
Two years ago, I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. As a naval officer who has been in the Navy for almost eight successful years, this was a devastating reality as that spelled the end of a career I thoroughly enjoyed. After fighting to stay in and allowing the stress to take over my life in ways I would never imagine, I finally succumbed to a medical retirement. This is no longer a negative outcome, however. One of the most peaceful realizations is that life is about experiencing the things around you and loving the people that become a part of your life and not about careers and a house and possessions. I look forward to sharing with you my past struggles and future adventures in hopes to reveal that this “disease” does not have to be a stigma, but a virtue instead.