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After Being Diagnosed With Cancer, I Traveled To The 7 Wonders Of The World In 13 Days
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After Being Diagnosed With Cancer, I Traveled To The 7 Wonders Of The World In 13 Days

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12 countries – 15 flights – 28,211 total miles traveled – 5 hotel night stays – 1 confiscated tripod – 7 wonders – 13 days.

I fell 50-feet climbing in Yosemite, got hit by a car and then diagnosed with skin cancer, all in one month. Two weeks later, I decided to see the 7 New Wonders of the World in just 13 days with a new outlook on life: to live more now.

RELATED:

    Day 1: Chichen Itza

    It all started in Yosemite Valley where I had been training for three years to climb the Nose route on El Capitan. I was 2,000 feet up when I took a terrifying 50-foot fall. After a fall like that, I started to question everything… from why am I putting myself into these scary situations to what is driving me to seek out these ambitious climbs?.. What am I trying to prove to myself, or better yet, to the world?

    Day 2: Machu Picchu

    Like something out of a movie… A week later I was hit by a car while riding my Vespa and then diagnosed with skin cancer during a routine check-up. In three weeks time I was handed the trifecta of bad luck.

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    Day 4: Cristo Redentor

    My friends and family only half jokingly recommended me to purchase a giant human bubble to live in. But after realizing how expensive and very inconvenient to my dating life that would be, I had this great moment of clarity: I survived.

    Day 6: Colosseum

    In my lifetime, the greatest learning moments have come at a time of tragedy and loss. From loss comes radical change, for it opens up a space that is yearning for something new.

    Day 8: Petra

    After the worst month of my life, I started to rethink how I was living my life. I came to this amazing realization… that the only thing stopping me from having everything that I ever wanted in life was simple: me.

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    Day 11: Taj Mahal

    I would always say, “there isn’t enough time or money” but those were just excuses. What I was really afraid of was failure. I needed to stop thinking that my goals were impossible and start thinking that I have the power to decide how I am going to live my life everyday.

    Day 12: Great Wall of China

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    The only regrets that I have in my life are from the missed opportunities that I never took a chance on. This year I took a chance and I will continue taking chancing to experience the greatest adventure of all: my life.

    7 Wonders in 13 Days

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    Megan Sullivan

    Megan Sullivan

    Author, Community member

    Read more »

    producer// director// photographer// dirtbag https://www.instagram.com/themegansullivan

    Read less »
    Megan Sullivan

    Megan Sullivan

    Author, Community member

    producer// director// photographer// dirtbag https://www.instagram.com/themegansullivan

    What do you think ?
    Add photo comments
    POST
    ChrisPrange-Morgan
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Awesome journey! I can totally relate. Took a climbing fall, spent two years in and out of the hospital, and eventually became an amputee. Now I am training to become a hospital chaplaincy, and working through others' cruxes which are more massive and serious than I could have ever imagined. It is an amazing journey....the inward one. :). Travel and climb on!

    MusiconHaidaGwaii
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    greaaaat because what health care needs is more religion how about studying something that actually helps people

    Load More Replies...
    AmandaPanda
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Damn girl, you had more problems than a math book, but I'm glad you found the solution you were looking for :)

    FidouDidou
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    it would take me a month only to get visa's, maybe I'm pessimistic

    KaterinaPortokalia
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    yes this is what I was thinking too. And 15 flights in 13 days? Now, I'm thinking she either spent all her treatment money and said f**k it I'm doing this, or she has enough money for both. Either way, if she was able to do this it was probably the best thing to do, and she is lucky to be able to do it. From me, a big "get well", girl.

    Load More Replies...
    MoniqueCummings
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    She fell 50 feet, got hit by a car, and got diagnosed with skin cancer all in one month. Then 2 weeks later she went on this physically demanding whirlwind trip? HOW??? Wouldn't she be too injured?

    KaterinaPavlitova
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Why are we asked to admire this narcissistic stunt masquerading as an inspiring journey?

    AlbinoSquirrel
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That's an amazing idea, keep traveling and stay strong!!!!!! Hope you can get better!!!!!!!

    PaulDodd
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This is brilliant Megan. You will beat cancer, wishing you health and happiness :)

    ChristianHill
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Gawd, air travel sucks nowadays. I'd rather hop a hog and hit the road.

    IngoMettes
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Megan, what was the best (or top 3) of your sightings? And wasn't it too much of a hassle getting there whitin the days?

    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I wrote a trip report here: http://megthelegend.com/7-wonders-of-the-world Check it out :)

    Load More Replies...
    Arty
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I can understand the need to feel alive after such a news...but why do it in 13 days?? So much more to see in these place that the "wonders" :)

    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It was the only amount of time that I could take off of work... needed to get back to start rebuilding my savings again! :)

    Load More Replies...
    GuillaumeSave
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    You mean she didn't visit the hanging gardens of Babylon? Well...that's disappointing... Anyway...thank you Cap'tain Obvious.

    Load More Replies...
    Teresa W-S
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Dear Megan, I'm very glad you were able to see those wonders - I have seen some of them myself too- but I wonder, how are you feeling after all these time!...Are you doing wonderfully well?

    Andrés Sierra
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Hello everyone My mom goes through the same disease, we hope that after overcoming the disease she can also vijar, for now I would like your help, check the link of our little story and if it is within your reach collaborate with our cause to fundraising for the treatment of my mother, she is cheerful, lively just waiting to start treatment, their children are equally optimistic cheerful, but first we must raising the money needed. This is the link I'll be forever grateful https://www.gofundme.com/2382cfg

    GinoArduini
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    you still fighting the disease? sounds like it was a push in your life. wish you luck, good health and joyful days ahead. and keep your boots strolling =D

    NZStuartBoy
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Stay strong Megan. You are making your life bright and beautiful!

    KarenChaddock
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I think she made an adventure for herself which I can understand. I took a trip to Europe even though I was still feeling sick with the cancer I had also. I hope she is doing well now and getting better.

    RichardPetch
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Why not have it cut out, I have just had a big one cut out of my back, results came back okay, but I would not have wasted all that money, I signed every penny over to my wife.

    MusiconHaidaGwaii
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The travel time and transfers alone make this story realllllly hard to believe

    FarihaRostai
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Thanks for sharing your story. Get well and keep your good spirit. Best wishes and speedy recovery.

    ElenaElleMacSmileva
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Why the need to expose yourself on social media?!? I understand people want to share stories, and be the inspiration for the other ones in need...but this video, this was soooo planned, there is a whole script behind it, proper cameras, proper editor, the next national georgaphic advert...this is not somethig that happened over night...so sorry to hear about what happened to you in three weeks timw but this whole story is beyond what people need that have touched the bottom and need the light at the end of the tunnel...now go and film the next john lewis commercial

    EstevGuerrero
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I saw your video last spring and it inspired me to see my 4 remaining wonders in one trip!! It was the single greatest adventure of my life and I thank you for that! I hope you're doing well!!

    EstevGuerrero
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I saw your video last spring and it inspired me to finish the remaining wonders I had in one trip! It was the single greatest experience of my life and I thank you for that! I hope you're doing well!

    Kelsey
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My mom was recently diagnosed with stage 4. I showed her this, she was amazed. Maybe even if it is a bit of a stretch - it offers hope.

    MarySharkey
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This is complete BS. Fake photos, not too mention this is impossible.

    StevenAbordaje
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    thank you for money and good passport aye? how about third world countries? do you think they can travel visa free?

    FurnishMyWay_Blog
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    These pictures are beautiful and it sounds like you went on quite the adventure!

    IgorMorozov
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Get well soon. Have you seen this movie - http://m.imdb.com/title/tt0942891/

    IonutAlexandru
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Ill pray for you and your helth,dont lose faith,no matter what lifes brings u!

    IonutAlexandru
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I will pray for you and your helth,never lose faith ! God has a plan for each one of us. Om!

    汜施
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    You are the bravest girl in the world!best wishes for you ~

    JulsRobertson
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    And they got married and lived 'HAPPY EVER AFTER'.......maybe, you never know, YOU GO GIRL!

    KonstantinosTheodoridis
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Hope all the best for you! c is a son of a b***h, but keep strong and hopefully you will beat it.

    DerGoosher
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Amazing Decision, I sometimes imagine what I do, if I'd be in your position. Go Travel the World!

    MelanieKehaya
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    She needs to go to the Amazon in Peru and drink ayahuasca. It cures some cancers

    AmberJL
    Community Member
    8 years ago

    This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

    Cool! Why don't people realize alcohol causes cancer? http://helpmebro.com/posts/EM2s04NvXv

    TalKroshnshtain
    Community Member
    8 years ago

    This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

    Credit Card & Unsecured Debt Relief Now - call today 855-409-3308

    ChrisPrange-Morgan
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Awesome journey! I can totally relate. Took a climbing fall, spent two years in and out of the hospital, and eventually became an amputee. Now I am training to become a hospital chaplaincy, and working through others' cruxes which are more massive and serious than I could have ever imagined. It is an amazing journey....the inward one. :). Travel and climb on!

    MusiconHaidaGwaii
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    greaaaat because what health care needs is more religion how about studying something that actually helps people

    Load More Replies...
    AmandaPanda
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Damn girl, you had more problems than a math book, but I'm glad you found the solution you were looking for :)

    FidouDidou
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    it would take me a month only to get visa's, maybe I'm pessimistic

    KaterinaPortokalia
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    yes this is what I was thinking too. And 15 flights in 13 days? Now, I'm thinking she either spent all her treatment money and said f**k it I'm doing this, or she has enough money for both. Either way, if she was able to do this it was probably the best thing to do, and she is lucky to be able to do it. From me, a big "get well", girl.

    Load More Replies...
    MoniqueCummings
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    She fell 50 feet, got hit by a car, and got diagnosed with skin cancer all in one month. Then 2 weeks later she went on this physically demanding whirlwind trip? HOW??? Wouldn't she be too injured?

    KaterinaPavlitova
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Why are we asked to admire this narcissistic stunt masquerading as an inspiring journey?

    AlbinoSquirrel
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That's an amazing idea, keep traveling and stay strong!!!!!! Hope you can get better!!!!!!!

    PaulDodd
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This is brilliant Megan. You will beat cancer, wishing you health and happiness :)

    ChristianHill
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Gawd, air travel sucks nowadays. I'd rather hop a hog and hit the road.

    IngoMettes
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Megan, what was the best (or top 3) of your sightings? And wasn't it too much of a hassle getting there whitin the days?

    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I wrote a trip report here: http://megthelegend.com/7-wonders-of-the-world Check it out :)

    Load More Replies...
    Arty
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I can understand the need to feel alive after such a news...but why do it in 13 days?? So much more to see in these place that the "wonders" :)

    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It was the only amount of time that I could take off of work... needed to get back to start rebuilding my savings again! :)

    Load More Replies...
    GuillaumeSave
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    You mean she didn't visit the hanging gardens of Babylon? Well...that's disappointing... Anyway...thank you Cap'tain Obvious.

    Load More Replies...
    Teresa W-S
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Dear Megan, I'm very glad you were able to see those wonders - I have seen some of them myself too- but I wonder, how are you feeling after all these time!...Are you doing wonderfully well?

    Andrés Sierra
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Hello everyone My mom goes through the same disease, we hope that after overcoming the disease she can also vijar, for now I would like your help, check the link of our little story and if it is within your reach collaborate with our cause to fundraising for the treatment of my mother, she is cheerful, lively just waiting to start treatment, their children are equally optimistic cheerful, but first we must raising the money needed. This is the link I'll be forever grateful https://www.gofundme.com/2382cfg

    GinoArduini
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    you still fighting the disease? sounds like it was a push in your life. wish you luck, good health and joyful days ahead. and keep your boots strolling =D

    NZStuartBoy
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Stay strong Megan. You are making your life bright and beautiful!

    KarenChaddock
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I think she made an adventure for herself which I can understand. I took a trip to Europe even though I was still feeling sick with the cancer I had also. I hope she is doing well now and getting better.

    RichardPetch
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Why not have it cut out, I have just had a big one cut out of my back, results came back okay, but I would not have wasted all that money, I signed every penny over to my wife.

    MusiconHaidaGwaii
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The travel time and transfers alone make this story realllllly hard to believe

    FarihaRostai
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Thanks for sharing your story. Get well and keep your good spirit. Best wishes and speedy recovery.

    ElenaElleMacSmileva
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Why the need to expose yourself on social media?!? I understand people want to share stories, and be the inspiration for the other ones in need...but this video, this was soooo planned, there is a whole script behind it, proper cameras, proper editor, the next national georgaphic advert...this is not somethig that happened over night...so sorry to hear about what happened to you in three weeks timw but this whole story is beyond what people need that have touched the bottom and need the light at the end of the tunnel...now go and film the next john lewis commercial

    EstevGuerrero
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I saw your video last spring and it inspired me to see my 4 remaining wonders in one trip!! It was the single greatest adventure of my life and I thank you for that! I hope you're doing well!!

    EstevGuerrero
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I saw your video last spring and it inspired me to finish the remaining wonders I had in one trip! It was the single greatest experience of my life and I thank you for that! I hope you're doing well!

    Kelsey
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My mom was recently diagnosed with stage 4. I showed her this, she was amazed. Maybe even if it is a bit of a stretch - it offers hope.

    MarySharkey
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This is complete BS. Fake photos, not too mention this is impossible.

    StevenAbordaje
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    thank you for money and good passport aye? how about third world countries? do you think they can travel visa free?

    FurnishMyWay_Blog
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    These pictures are beautiful and it sounds like you went on quite the adventure!

    IgorMorozov
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Get well soon. Have you seen this movie - http://m.imdb.com/title/tt0942891/

    IonutAlexandru
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Ill pray for you and your helth,dont lose faith,no matter what lifes brings u!

    IonutAlexandru
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I will pray for you and your helth,never lose faith ! God has a plan for each one of us. Om!

    汜施
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    You are the bravest girl in the world!best wishes for you ~

    JulsRobertson
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    And they got married and lived 'HAPPY EVER AFTER'.......maybe, you never know, YOU GO GIRL!

    KonstantinosTheodoridis
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Hope all the best for you! c is a son of a b***h, but keep strong and hopefully you will beat it.

    DerGoosher
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Amazing Decision, I sometimes imagine what I do, if I'd be in your position. Go Travel the World!

    MelanieKehaya
    Community Member
    8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    She needs to go to the Amazon in Peru and drink ayahuasca. It cures some cancers

    AmberJL
    Community Member
    8 years ago

    This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

    Cool! Why don't people realize alcohol causes cancer? http://helpmebro.com/posts/EM2s04NvXv

    TalKroshnshtain
    Community Member
    8 years ago

    This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

    Credit Card & Unsecured Debt Relief Now - call today 855-409-3308

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