International Kayak Community supports local deaf man's Amazon trip of hope

"I am past the frustration" remarks Henderson regarding last week's loss of his boat, "but I am grateful to the support that has emerged so I can continue the mission of the Intaba Paddle."

Allthough slightly delayed until next week, the “Intaba Paddle for Deaf Education” two-fold mission to set an unofficial world record while increasing awareness to the global needs of the deaf community is still determined to be a go. Deaf himself since birth, Henderson will be attempting to set a new kayaking record of the fastest time via the Amazon between Pucallpa, Peru to Belem, Brazil, now in a brand-new boat thanks to the generosity of Peruvian business owner, Alvaro Ali who is selling the boat to Henderson at a significantly reduced cost. According to Henderson,” He has saved us thousands of dollars, and for that, I am eternally grateful!" Alvaro owner of the Peru Sea Kayaking, "I understand and admire what you are doing!"

Meanwhile Guto Campos from Epic Kayaks Brasil who helped connect Henderson with Ali and himself a former world champion and Olympian paddler said to Henderson, "I wish you all the best, man, you're doing beautiful work with the children. We will definitely keep in touch for sure."

While Henderson still needs to raise about $1800 to completely fund this trip, assistance locally has continued to come in. Raymond Gatosk (pictured) owner of the Amazon design logo company recently has pledged his corporate support, while friends, family, neighbors and Henderson's church community have all contributed gratefully to his go-fund-me campaign. Rick Chavez, from Urban Imaging and former 3rd grade classmate of Henderson's has made a generous contribution, plus supplied Intaba decals and a rainfly worth hundred more. Says Chavez, "We remember you as the 'Machine.' There is no doubt you will prevail! You are an inspiration to us all!"

Henderson may never know exactly what happened to his original boat, but he is determined to move on. "I want to instill a sense of 'forgiveness' as my boat was stolen or taken out of my possession, and in its place, is a renewed form of positive energy to make the most out of what we have and transcend the Intaba to new heights. This is, after all, what the Intaba represents--hope for today and tomorrow while uniting peoples and cultures of all walks to give Deaf children a better start in life.”

To support the Intaba’s Paddle mission of hope, contributions are gratefully accepted at: https://www.gofundme.com/dr-murdock-henderson

To learn more about the work of Intaba in the deaf community, please visit Facebook, and follow Henderson’s trip via live feed! Henderson can also be reached directly at intabadeafed@gmail.com