A New Hip For Badger

My friend Thomas Mabry has struggled with a painful medical condition for over two years since he dislocated his left hip on a night hike near the Linville Gorge Wilderness. Badger has soldiered on, completing his quest to visit over 1,000 unique waterfalls and numerous hikes in the Southern Appalachians, all the while providing his friends and fans without countless tales of adventure and beautiful photography and videography, as well as leading hikes, maintaining trails and helping everyone enjoy the outdoor experience. Unfortunately, the wear and tear on the hip has resulted in a diagnosis of avascular necrosis – the dislocated joint has interrupted the blood flow to his femoral head which causes pain with virtually every step. The doctor has ordered an artificial hip which will alleviate the pain and get Badger back on the trails again, but it comes with a cost: while he does have insurance, it will not cover all of the costs, and it's estimated that he will need over $10,000 to cover the out of pocket. His surgery is Dec 19. Lets show our appreciation for this man who has inspired and helped so many. He is loved and we'll respected in the hiking community. I have hiked with him for three years now and watched him limp along the trails, in pain, never complaining. I've watched the decline in his abilities seriously over the last year, I'm so glad he is getting a new hip. It blows my mind with his condition, he has been able to do all he has accomplished. He didn't ask me to do this but I'm doing it anyway. He deserves it. Any donation is appreciated. Thank you!