Vietnam Vet Terry’s Return to Asia Tour

Vietnam Vet, two-time cancer survivor, Terry, says, “Don’t wait! Go do it!” So, from October 28 through November 24, 2019, he took “the trip of a lifetime” to six Asian destinations. The dream venture took two years of extensive planning and training. On October 31, 2017, Terry landed in the hospital with a life-threatening infection that claimed two of his toes. After months of rehab and recovery, he returned to the West Family YMCA to build his stamina. His workout regimen increased to 5 days a week and he added 45+ minutes of Wellness training before his 45-minute water fitness classes.

His traveling companions included his wife, Sue, their eldest son, Todd, and his wife, Jennifer, and their youngest son, Matthew, and his wife, Emily. Their daughter-in-law planned the trip and arranged for tour guides in each destination. They traveled light, one carry-on bag each for the entire 27-day trip. Terry’s specially constructed shoes took him to China, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Borneo and Hong Kong. The highlights included: feeding pandas in a panda sanctuary, learning to cook Thai dishes, snorkeling, feeding and hugging elephants in Thailand, a jungle tour of orangutans in Borneo and a visit to the lights of the city in Hong Kong harbor.

Terry’s YMCA endurance training paid off the most in Malaysia. He climbed 274 steps to an Indian Temple in 90-degree weather with 100% humidity.

The most emotional part of the tour for the vet and family was Vietnam. He and his five brothers all served there and some, including Terry, suffered long-term health effects from exposure to chemicals, like Agent Orange. While on the streets, November 11, Terry met the enemy, an older English-speaking Vietnamese gentleman. They exchanged heartfelt apologies. That day will be remembered as one of the most meaningful Veteran’s Days ever for Terry and his family.

Terry’s commitment to his wellness, his YMCA workouts, 2 bullet train rides, 13 airplane flights and a supportive family made this amazing venture reality!