In this episode, we recount a challenging experience during our cycling trip in the Himalayas. Sean shares the story of his accident, where he was forced to brake hard on the trike, causing it to flip and throwing him to the ground. The impact left him with severe pain in his shoulder and hip, making it difficult to breathe initially and leaving him unable to continue the ride. Despite his initial hope that he might recover quickly, the pain worsened, and he realized he needed to seek medical attention back in the United States.

With the help of his teammates Colin and Colin's daughter, Alexis, Sean navigated the arduous journey back home, dealing with intense pain throughout. Upon arriving in the U.S., Sean visited the ER to begin his recovery process. Meanwhile, the rest of the team continued the ride, facing grueling climbs and extreme conditions. The episode highlights the resilience and determination of both Sean and the team, underscoring the physical and emotional challenges of undertaking such a demanding journey.

This trip would not have happened without these team sponsors: Biogen, Lexeo Therapeutics, Cure FA Foundation, Masonry Builders, Nugget Markets, and The Avery Family Foundation. Gear provided by: Catrike, Gorewear, and Zeiss Camera Lenses.

The episode ends with a discussion about what's next. Kyle will focus on development of the rideATAXIA fundraising program. Sean will climb the world's longest staircase in Switzerland next year.

This episode kicks off Season 12: An abbreviated season. After eight years of consistent publishing, the Dudes are scaling back for the rest of 2024 in order to fine tune the show, focus energy elsewhere, and just catch up on life. This season will consist of five episodes, one for each month through December. Regular, weekly episodes will resume in February 2025 with Season 13.

The reflection of their trip to India will span over two episodes. In this episode (pt.1), Sean and Kyle reflect on their recent trip to India, describing both the challenges and highlights of their adventure. They mention the initial stress of the journey, the support they received from sponsors and donors, and the excitement and admiration from friends and family.

The episode details their activities, including meeting researchers at the All India Institute for Medical Sciences (AIIMS) and connecting with the FA patient community of India. They recount the logistical difficulties they faced, such as getting their trikes through Customs and navigating airport security with their group, including the language barriers and misunderstandings.

Upon arriving in Leh, they acclimated to the high altitude, explored local culture, and prepared their Catrikes for the upcoming trek. The Dudes share humorous and stressful moments, such as the infamous white scarfs, dealing with intense sun exposure, and adapting to local cuisine.

Finally, they describe the start of their bike ride, marked by a traditional dance and music presentation by local performers, emphasizing the support and encouragement they received throughout their journey.

Be sure to catch episode 257 for the rest of the story.

In the final episode of season 11, The Dudes discuss their major upcoming event: a challenging 200-mile bike ride in the Himalayas - to the top of the world’s highest paved road - over 19,000’. They talk about the logistics, the elevation challenges, and their preparation, including the use of altitude training masks. They also address concerns about food, accessibility, and health, highlighting the need to adapt to unforeseen circumstances.

Sean and Kyle express their excitement and some nervousness about the trip, emphasizing the importance of taking on such challenges despite the risks. The Dudes reflect on the support and inspiration they find within the rare disease community, underscoring the shared goal of pushing boundaries and raising awareness.

Also in this episode:

• An update on Kyle's adaptive van situation featuring a note from Terry in Australia.
• Rare Resilience: Onno Faber
• Thank you notes: The Kindness of strangers and Team FARA supporters

Links and resources:

• More about Sean and Kyle's trip.
• The route map.
• Donate to Team FARA Himalayas.
• Visit our segment partner: #RAREis