A benefit hike for the People’s Burn Foundation
December 18, 2008 Zoe Frantz will journey south to Machu Picchu, Peru alongside her husband and two closest friends to embark upon a journey many never thought could be possible. The group will tackle the mountainous jungle of the Inca Trail covering 45 kilometers over the course of four days. Training for this adventure has been strenuous, but pales in comparison to the many challenges Zoe has already conquered.
At just 14 months of age Zoe suffered third-degrees burns across 80-percent of her body after being accidentally submerged in a bathtub with scalding water. The injuries she sustained threw her body into shock and placed her in a coma for nearly three months followed by three more months in a semi-conscious state. The team of experts in the burn unit at Riley Hospital for Children saved Zoe’s life. They would eventually help her learn to crawl, walk, talk and eat again all the while performing multiple surgeries to aid in her recovery. Though she does not remember the initial series of operations, Zoe can still recall the 100-plus surgeries she’s endured since.
From 2000-2006, Zoe served on the Board of Directors for the People’s Burn Foundation and currently serves on the Program committee. In that capacity, as well as time spent on at Brave Hearts’ Camp, Zoe discovered what she believes to be her life’s purpose. She discovered numerous outlets to educate people in regards to burn injuries and means to prevent them. She is also a mentor to those who have only recently experienced burn injuries and assists them with their physical and emotional recovery. Zoe hopes that by educating as many as she can she might save other children from enduring the life long effects of burn injury that she has experienced.
With that in mind, Zoe’s thoughts turned to PBF as she and her husband discussed their journey to Machu Picchu. They decided their trek could serve two purposes: fulfill a personal goal for Zoe while at the same time raise funds for the People’s Burn Foundation. “A Summit of Courage” was born with the goal of raising $5000 by journey’s end.
Zoe will give Brave Heart Campers an inside look into her journey when she leads them on a special hike on August 7th at Happy Hollow Camp as she prepares for her trip to Peru. You can help Zoe reach her summit by donating to the cause in support of her efforts. By doing so you will help this young woman, who had lost nearly all muscle mass in her legs due to her injuries, fulfill a dream while aiding others in the process. Every little bit counts and will help to show others that anything – even the unimaginable – is possible when you put your heart and soul into it! Thank you for support! To make a donation:
Make checks payable to: People’s Burn Foundation
Memo section: Summit of Courage
Mailing address:
People’s Burn Foundation
323 N. Delaware Street
Indianapolis, IN 46204
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