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John Daley ReportingA very inspiring group making its way across country made a stop in Utah today. Their message: You can do anything, if you try.
At first glance it looks like an ordinary group of riders. Then you see a police escort, and then you might notice something else, this is a group of amputees.
A trio of riders is making the cross country trek in the effort called "Amputees Across America."
Kip Peavy lost a leg after being rear-ended by an 18-wheeler five years ago today.
Kip Peavy, Amputees Across America: "It was certainly frightening. Didn't know what to expect. It was just very difficult at first. The main thing is to maintain a positive attitude."
The group is getting no shortage of support as it makes its way from San Francisco to New York, including here at the HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital.
Linda Holt, Amputees Across America: "Everybody has been so supportive. People will pass us on the road and wave and honk their horn in support."
Their message is even more poignant these days with soldiers returning from war facing similar challenges.
Jim Thayer, Amputees Across America: "I've met a few of the soldiers who have come back, who are missing limbs and their attitudes, a lot of them are 'Get me up and walking again and lets get up and do what I want to do for my country.'”
The riders say technological advances have helped make their transition easier, but the first hurdle is psychological.
Kip Peavy: "There's no need to give up. Your life is not over. You actually have a whole lot you can do. I had many people tell me things I couldn't do anymore. I haven't found anything."
That attitude is not lost on some of the young riders who are joining them along the way.
Chris Rhoades, Rider, Boise, Idaho: "If you have an amputation, never give up. Just keep on going. You can do anything like anybody else can."
Not a bad message to carry across America.
The final stop at the end of this 4,100 mile transcontinental journey will be Rockefeller Center in New York City on August 6.
