His GoFundMe page says COPD Can’t Beat Me! That’s Richard, grabbing life with both hands, no matter what.
We met Richard when he was living here in Panama and had a motorcycle for sale. We decided a motorcycle wasn’t the wisest thing for us, but we have been friends with Richard ever since.
He’s had an interesting life. Read a bit about it on his GoFundMe page. He’s never let what a person should do get in the way of living the life of his dreams, and I really admire that. He’s been a writer, a deck hand, and a licenced boat captain which allowed him a lot interesting travel. He lived in France for a while, on a boat in New Orleans, and who knows what all else over the decades. Eventually he ended up in a smaller town down the road from us in Panama where he learned Spanish, immersed himself in the culture, and hung out with his Panamanian neighbors.
But, COPD, a history of heart trouble, and arthritis made him think he’d be better in the US. He had been dreaming of living on a boat again for some time, so maybe it would work out – live on a boat within his limited budget, with medicare funded health care? Last April he went for it, bought a boat, went to the US, and starting traveling up the west coast of Florida. He survived hurricanes, illnesses, cold weather, and mechanical problems but never quit. When winter came, he decided to ride it out in Bradenton FL where he is currently anchored.
A beautiful picture of a fogging morning in Bradenton, FL.
His latest dream is to write another book so others can also follow their dreams of living on a boat. Who better to write it than an experienced writer and boat captain who has actually traveled the waters he plans to write about? Who better to inspire people than someone, in spite of his health and financial challenges, still insists on living life to the fullest?
I am excited to support my friend in his efforts. If you are too, send him a few dollars. Or, if you aren’t, send him a bit anyway because I’m asking you to help my friend. If all of you, all my readers even sent him $2 he would exceed his goal by a good margin.
Sunrise in Florida
It would be so easy to retreat to a rocking chair, but not Richard! He grabs life with both hands, and it is so inspiring. The pictures in this post have been blatantly stolen from his Facebook page. What’s the saying? Rather than ask for permission before, ask for forgiveness afterward. Forgive me Richard, and best of luck in your campaign!
The Panama Adventure 
There is no way I can adequately express my appreciation for your support, Kris. You are truly one of a kind in the best way possible. I loved the way YOU grabbed life when you moved to Panama. Your bike jaunts were incredible, especially peddling all the way to Nicaragua!!!
Towards the end of my eight year sojourn in La Republia I was simply stagnating. I needed that “One More Good Adventure,” you know. As much as I loved Boqueron and all my wonderful neighbors, it began to seem, to me, that I was simply warehousing myself and waiting to die. Yes, in the end the health issues were what drove me to repatriate but I needed to DO SOMETHING. And this is it.
I always said, though, that you and Joel were having more fun in Panama than any two people should be allowed to have. Keep it up!
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Hey, we are all in this together and help each other however we can! The Buddhist teachings say a spirit of generosity, and sharing whatever you can spare brings happiness and you will be repaid and more. I have found this to be very true in my life, so thank you for increasing my happiness and wealth.
Yes we are having a wonderful time, and I wish the same for you. Keep on living the life!
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Hi Kris, I hope you and Joel are keeping well. I’ve been following Richard’s adventures for quite a while. Donation sent.
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Thank you so much!
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Hola Kris,
We donated to the original project to sail the Mississippi to the Gulf.
But, as they say, life has a way of changing one’s plans. We still hope for that project but we understand that it is not an easy journey. These days I am happy just to wake up on the correct side of the lawn. Our grandkids are growing a month for every week we see them, it seems.
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He has a spot that’s works and a doctor who is taking care of him so I don’t think he’s going to travel all over the country, but he’s still living th dream on a bit smaller scale. It’s tight living on SS in the US so any help is appreciated, I’m sure.
Correct side of the lawn LOL yes for sure
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Inspirational. thanks for sharing.
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Yes indeed, and my pleasure 🙂
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Done! I was just rewarding him for all the interesting reading he has provided me. Thanks for the alert Kris
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That’s great, thanks. I know he appreciates it.
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wow…this is amazing!!
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Yep, and he’s still on the boat, bouncing around on a chilly blustery day in FL itching to get stuff done so he can be on his way.
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