To Live or Just Exist - Which is Your Choice?

Many of us choose a relatively safe existence in life, while others choose to reach out and actually live.  Brendan, our lead rider for PACT13 (Pan America's Cycle Tour), has chosen the latter!

Brendan, age 33, told me earlier today, "There are lots of reasons why I have started traveling, but going to Africa in 2008 has made me realise that we are so rich.  I have pretty much sold everything, no loans no credit cards, no ties, to save money and see the world. to live rather than just exsist".

After a life changing visit to Malawi in 2008, Brendan decided to make a career change, as he felt it was time to give back.  He started working as a teaching assistant in a school for children with Autism, which was a fantastic introduction.

Brendan went on to tell me, "I learned so much about the children I worked with, the correct techniques to use and also so much more about myself.  Since 2010 I have taken my experience, learned in a school environment, into becoming a full time Support Worker, working with children with Autism, providing  respite for the parents, but also a friend for the children I work with.  I also work for Time, a babysitting agency started by Tori Houghton.  I work closely with 10 families taking the children out into the real world whether it be the park, museum etc or sometimes we stay at home – the main thing is that they have fun!!!". 

In February of this year, Brendan set off for Sri Lanka and is now in India, where he will stay until August of 2012.  

On 10th May, Brendan told me via his Facebook page, "What a morning yesterday!  I have to share this, again a dream come true to see 3 Tiger Cubs and a Leopard in one Safari - very special moments and to top it off, the BBC were right in front filming!!!!". 

I have to admit, listening to Brendan's enthusiasm and excitement about what he has seen and done turns my skin tone a very slight shade of green, though at the same time, I am very happy that such a nice, caring person is able to live his dream! 

You can follow Brendan's travels through India by subscribing to our blog, as I will be posting weekly updates, including pictures.  Also, if you would like to sponsor Brendan for his PACT13 Cycle Tour, you can do so by clicking HERE.