“This is me” by Danny Wilks

Danny Wilks is a Scotsman who was inspired to paddle more than 1000 miles through the Inside Passage from Vancouver, BC, to Alaska. His adventure is chronicled in his book This is me: Where there’s a will there’s a way – one man’s quest for Alaska (self published, 2013).

Like many young people who like to travel and have adventures on a budget, Danny participated in WWOOF (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms). This volunteer program allows individuals to exchange their labour for meals and lodging in a variety of settings from farms, to mountain lodges and much more. It’s through this program that he was allowed to gain some experience in kayaking.

On a subsequent trip to Canada, Danny went to Vancouver, BC, and began to plan his 10-week paddling adventure. On a tight budget, he acquired his supplies including a Current Designs Storm 17-foot sea kayak. To let people know his progress, he created a blog spotthescot.wordpress.com. He updated it when possible (not often on his wilderness route) and asked others to submit pictures and entries.

Danny states that he's not a writer and “teachers … would testify to this,” but his story was an entertaining read.

Danny embarks from Vancouver and works his way up the British Columbia coast in all kinds of weather. He learned most of his kayaking skills along the way, and in some hair-raising situations. He camped most nights and ate simple meals, augmented with fish when possible.

Arriving in Ketchikan was a shock after being alone. Money didn’t go far in a tourist town, and a run-in with US Immigration didn’t help. He was required to return to Canada. He paddled back south to Prince Rupert where he sold the kayak and hitchhiked back to Vancouver.

In addition to the blog and book, Danny also took video during his trip. He put the clips together into a two hour and thirty-seven minute film that's available on YouTube.

Danny Wilks is one of those people who can take a dream and make it become a reality. He’s had many life adventures, but this is one to remember. I enjoyed the book and recommend it to any outdoor enthusiast, kayaker or adventurer at heart.

This is me by Danny Wilks is now available for Kindle at Amazon.

Have you ever taken a dream or desire and made it real? What happened for you? -- Margy