Hi, I’m Phil,
I’m 56 years old and on a nine-year journey to do something that once felt impossible: thru-hike the entire 2,190-mile Appalachian Trail after two total knee replacements.
For years I carried extra weight, managed type 2 diabetes (diagnosed in 2007), and struggled with knees that couldn’t take me where I wanted to go. My A1C levels rose and fell with my weight—from a high of 9% in late 2023 down to 5.9% in September 2025 – Since July when I choose this path, I’ve lost nearly 40 pounds.
These changes aren’t just numbers; they’re part of preparing my body for the upcoming knee surgeries and giving myself the best chance at a strong recovery.
Now I’m taking the next big step:
- Right knee replacement: October 22, 2025
- Left knee replacement: January 12, 2026
These surgeries are more than medical procedures—they’re mile-markers on a path to the outdoors I love.
Why the Appalachian Trail
I’ve never done overnight backpacking, but the AT has called to me for years. In nine years, when I retire at 65, I plan to start in Georgia and walk north to summit Mt. Katahdin. Between now and then I’ll be learning the skills, building endurance, and testing gear one local hike at a time.
Family & Support
I’ve been married to Theresa for more than three decades, and we’ve raised two wonderful adult children. We’re also proud grandparents to a lively young grandson.
Beyond my immediate family, I’m lucky to have a wide circle of family, friends, and kindred spirits who cheer me on, offer advice, and remind me that no journey—whether it’s surgery recovery or a 2,190-mile hike—is taken alone. Their encouragement is part of the strength that keeps me moving forward.
Whether it’s on a treadmill, a quiet trail here in New England, or someday the rocky climbs of the White Mountains, every step builds on the one before—even when I stumble.
What You’ll Find Here
This blog—Two New Knees, One Long Walk—isn’t just about hiking. It’s about rebuilding body, mind, and spirit.
You’ll see:
- Honest updates on knee-replacement recovery
- Training hikes and beginner backpacking adventures
- Weight-loss and diabetes-management check-ins
- Reflections on setbacks and small victories
If you’ve ever thought your best adventures were behind you, I hope my story reminds you they might still be ahead.
So welcome—I’m glad you’re here. Lace up your boots. The trail starts now.
If you’d like to follow along as I rebuild, recover, and eventually set foot on the Appalachian Trail, subscribe below. I’d love to share each step with you.
