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Orlando Computer Consultant Set to Begin ORLANDO - This March, Ron Jaffe, a self-employed Orlando computer consultant, will be quitting his business and setting out on a six-month journey over the Appalachian Trail with an aim to raise money for the Russell Home for Atypical Children. Jaffe, 41, begins his hike over the national scenic trail, a distance of 2,175 miles that crosses 14 states, on Friday, March 31st at the trail head in Springer Mountain, Georgia. Averaging about 13 miles a day, he expects to complete his journey by mid-September at the summit of Mount Kathadin, in Baxter State Park, Maine. This is no small quest considering that only about 20 percent of the hikers who set out to finish the trail in one season actually do so. Months ago, as Jaffe contemplated making a conversion from computer geek to mountain man, it was mainly with the idea to take a six-month regenerative career break. But he realized that each step he took could be even more meaningful if it could count for something bigger than himself. Without any savings beyond those which will support his 6 month journey, he has faith that things will 'work themselves out” when he returns, career-wise. The Russell Home on Holden Avenue in South Orlando was the first licensed facility in the state of Florida to care for brain-damaged children. Since its founding by Mrs. Vantrease “Grandma” Russell in 1951, the home has opened its doors to hundreds of youngsters, sometimes after hearing pleas from desperate parents, and in more than one instance, finding them just left on the doorstep. Grandma Russell died in June 2003 and the Home's staff dedicated themselves to continuing her mission. The Home cares for those whose handicap prevents their independent functioning in the community, and otherwise enjoying a normal life. It provides 24-hour specialized care in the home-like atmosphere the staff believes to be so vital to their special needs. For more information, see the Web site: http://www.russellhome.org The institution does not accept any local, state or federal funding and operates on private donations alone. “ It is impossible to walk into the Russell Home without being touched in some small way, if even just to be reminded that the daily toils we expose ourselves to are not really that significant, “ Jaffe said. “I had decided within an hour of my first visit that I had to do something to help these folks as the home is definitely in dire straits financially despite the help it receives from numerous people and organizations.” You can give toward Jaffe's five million steps for the Russell Home by going to Jaffe's Web site, http://www.wheresronnow.com and clicking the "Make a Donation” button. Jaffe will not receive any portion of your donation. All gifts will go directly to the Russell Home to cover its expenses Jaffe's own costs for the long hike, all coming out of personal savings, will be more than $4,000. In mid-March, Jaffe's wife, Aracelis, will drive him up to Amicalola Falls State Park in Georgia, about one hour northwest of Atlanta, to pick up the trail head. Several of the staff and children from the Russell Home will be taking a van up to see him off as well and take photos while holding a 4x8 foot “Good Luck” banner donated by one of the Home's supporters. After March 31, Jaffe's companions will be fellow hikers and his creature comforts will be those that fit in his backpack. Every seven to 10 miles along the trail, there are shelters which is where he will spend most of my nights. But surprisingly, this technologically skilled professional will not be carrying any electronic devices, save a camera and a small cell phone buried deeply in his pack for emergency only. To follow Jaffe's progress, go to http://www.wheresronnow.com. Aracelis Jaffe will be sending her husband supply packages, updating his Web site, and joining him along the way when she can. ### | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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