Once a month, I’ll be sharing the story of a woman who chose to see midlife not as a crisis, but as a turning point—a season of discovery, courage, and new beginnings.

Emma “Grandma” Gatewood’s story exemplifies how embracing adventure can lead to personal transformation and unexpected impact. At age 67, after a life of sacrifice, she made a bold decision: to do something for herself.

A Life Devoted to Others:
Emma raised 11 children and endured years of abuse from her husband, in a time when women had little support or resources to leave. Her life was one of grit and giving—pouring herself out for others without much left for herself. But eventually, she made a different choice: one rooted in reclaiming her identity and her voice.

The Call to Adventure:
Emma was inspired by an article she read in National Geographic—five years earlier. It was about the Appalachian Trail, and the idea of walking over 2,000 miles through wild terrain lit a spark in her spirit.

In 1954, at the age of 67, she told her family she was “going for a walk.” They had no idea she was planning to attempt the entire Appalachian Trail. When she didn’t return, her family became concerned, and search parties were sent out. They eventually found her and brought her home to Ohio.

But Emma wasn’t done.

The very next year, in 1955, she tried again—and this time, she completed the entire Appalachian Trail. Alone.

Determination in the Face of Adversity:
Her journey was far from glamorous. She wore men’s Converse high-top sneakers and carried a homemade denim bag with just a few essentials, including a shower curtain for shelter. Her grit, resourcefulness, and unwavering determination helped her overcome rugged terrain, unpredictable weather, and physical exhaustion.

Her first failed attempt didn’t stop her. It taught her. And that resilience is something so many of us can relate to—especially in midlife.

A Ripple Effect Beyond Her Imagination:
What Emma didn’t know is that her personal adventure would inspire more than just those who read about her in the news. Her story sparked national attention. Because of her, people began to care more deeply about the Appalachian Trail. Efforts were made to restore and maintain it—sections were improved, signs posted, and a broader community formed to protect it. Some even say her journey saved the trail.

All because one woman in her late 60s decided to do something just for herself.

Your Personal Adventure Matters, Too:
Adventure in midlife isn’t just about risk or extreme sports—it’s about learning something new, doing something different, challenging yourself, or returning to a long-forgotten dream. Maybe for you it’s taking a class, traveling solo, writing that book, or picking up knitting needles for the first time in decades.

Adventure is personal. It’s not defined by what the world sees—it’s defined by how you feel when you do it.

And here’s the beautiful truth: you never know who your courage will inspire.

Just like Emma’s bold step onto that trail led to preservation efforts and countless hikers enjoying its beauty today, your journey might open a door for someone else.

Questions to Consider:

• What is one thing you’ve always wanted to do but never made time for?
• What would adventure look like for you in this season?
• If you weren’t afraid of failing, what would you try?
• How might your pursuit of something new actually inspire others?
• Are there certain stories—like Emma’s—that you’ve felt drawn to? What might they be trying to tell you about your own next step?

Emma Gatewood’s story reminds us that it’s never too late to start something new. That our dreams matter. That personal adventures can echo far beyond what we imagine. So take the first step. Choose yourself. You might just pave the way for someone else.