We met for breakfast at the hotel at 7:00 a.m. sharp. Today’s going to be a “not-so-typical” Day 2 — we’re not quite deep into the wilderness yet, but we’re getting there. By 8:15, everyone had arrived: all the volunteers, followed by all the participants. There are 17 of us. No — 18, including me! Twelve participants and six team members. Plus three guides we’ll be meeting later at a snack bar in Grand-Remous.
I say it’s not a typical Day 2 because we’re boarding a coach bus headed to Pine Grove, a small resort with cozy cabins. It’s one last night with a roof over our heads and the comforts of showers, electricity, and running water. After that, it’s full-on adventure mode — we’ll hit the water, set up camp in the wild (sort of), share stories, laugh, maybe cry, connect, and definitely sing.
Before diving into the heart of the day, I’d like to share a little side moment with you.
About an hour into the bus ride, Catherine from the Foundation gently — yet firmly — introduced the idea that participants would soon be handing over their phones. She reassured everyone: “I promise, every time participants get their phones back at the end, they always say: ‘No thanks, I’d rather keep it in the box.’” Everyone had been warned ahead of time, and I watched as they all used their last 15 minutes to connect with loved ones before willingly surrendering their devices.
In that moment, it hit me — I’ve become a kind of bridge between you and them. I’ll do my best to share their journey with you through my words.
(End of side note.)
Think about it — joining a multi-day wilderness expedition, paddling in all kinds of weather, dealing with bugs, fatigue, being around people 24/7, managing food challenges, portaging gear… That takes courage. And not everyone has it.
But oh — you should’ve seen them on the water this afternoon! Rockets! Natural paddlers! Laughs, splashes, big smiles — everyone got soaked. Some even tipped on purpose, climbed back in, challenged themselves, helped each other, and were already perfecting their strokes. It ended in a group swim, warm water and great vibes. Then… leeches. Yes, leeches. Two long, black squiggly things showed up, and poor Jolyane had a brief encounter. But we all learned that leeches drink your blood and then let go when they’re done (according to our guide Hyppolite: “…and if one sticks, go see Lysianne,” our expedition doctor).
Marie-Michelle’s words echoed later during our evening reflection. When asked, “Why did you choose to join this expedition?”, participants shared where they are in their journey — and where they hope to go next.
They spoke of quality time. Of needing to unplug from work, routines, screens, and roles. Of closing a chapter. Many were grateful to meet others their age who’ve lived similar experiences. That kind of connection is powerful. For those on their second expedition, they confirmed the friendships built last time are still going strong.
Many here are nature lovers. It shows. And several are looking to reconnect with themselves, to be reminded that they’re still capable of doing things like this — despite surgeries, complications, or physical and emotional changes.
So many personal, heartfelt reflections have already been shared. This group is incredibly generous, especially given they’ve only been together for 36 hours. Nature, the outdoors, and the strength of the individuals present are already working their magic.
And one last thing — they’re thinking about you.
It’s not always easy to take time for oneself. To step away from loved ones, jobs, pets, routines — and choose connection: with oneself, with others, and with the healing energy of nature. It’s a big, brave decision. But I can promise you this: it will be a meaningful, transformative, and dare I say, magical one. When they return to you, they’ll be filled with love, confidence, and renewed energy.
For now, Day 2 is coming to a close. And as Manu beautifully put it: “This Day 2 wasn’t ordinary… it was already spectacular.”
Just imagine what’s to come.
Gabrielle
In pictures
