Gene Fletcher, The Amazing Trek to Bay Cliff

Thank you letter from Gene’s father for Master's US$10,000 contribution

Gene Fletcher of Michigan, USA, is a courageous fourteen-year-old boy with scoliosis and cerebral palsy, who drove 100 miles in his motorized wheelchair in 2009. He raised over US$20,000 for the Bay Cliff Health Camp, where he has been an enthusiastic camper for the last six years.

Bay Cliff Camp is a non-profit organization which has been in operation for more than 75 years. It offers physical, occupational, speech and music therapies to180 campers with varying disabilities each summer, as well as gives them the opportunity to take part in a wide range of activities that include boating, swimming, dancing, and much more.

With that highly successful feat behind him, Gene is now up for a new challenge. He recently launched his “2010 Trek to Bay Cliff" campaign with support from his family and friends. His exceptional endeavor earned him the Shining World Hero Award, a US$10,000 contribution from Supreme Master Ching Hai, along with a framed letter of recognition and a HERO jacket, which he received on September 25, Golden Year 6 (2009). In Her letter, Master commented that Gene is like a little Superman in disguise, “You have most certainly proved that what people call disabilities are merely differences – and it is differences that make life more vital and interesting, and Gene, you are making a difference to our world.”

This Award was a pleasant surprise for Gene and his parents, who wholeheartedly encourage him and are exceedingly proud of his accomplishments and his giving spirit. Gene’s father wrote back to Master, thanking Her for the generous contribution and said the money will be used to support his continuing efforts to help Bay Cliff Health Camp and other kids with disabilities meet their needs. The theme for his 2010 campaign is “Show the Magic,” and Mr. Fletcher added, “He [Gene] will be travelling to the Upper Michigan area and hopefully, lower Michigan to spread his magic.” We wish Gene great success in his new adventure. May his heroic acts continue to inspire people to live life with a sense of purpose and hope.