Trail to Transformation: Hope, Healing, and the Appalachian Trail

You know me; you may even know some of my story. I’m a disabled US Marine combat veteran whose journey of resilience has become a beacon of hope for others. At the very least, I hope this is true. Further, this is my intention.

Since 2021, I have been connecting with people and listening to their stories of personal transformation. I created The Question Guy Podcast to share those stories. In the years that followed, I had many conversations. Most of those conversations focused on the themes of inspiration, transformation, and empowerment!

One theme was focused on creating awareness of the impact of suicide in our culture and around the world. Although suicide has traditionally been seen as a mental health problem, there is a deeper truth to this crisis. It’s a societal problem.

After surviving the darkest chapters of my life, including PTSD, multiple suicide attempts, and a heart attack in 2022, I made the decision to rebuild my life through nature, fitness, spiritual pursuits, and meaningful connections.

Since 2022, I have been training for a life-altering (even extraordinary) challenge: a thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail in 2026. This expedition spans 2,193 miles from Georgia to Maine. The Appalachian Trail symbolizes my personal transformation and my mission to inspire other veterans to find healing and purpose.

You can follow my training journey on my YouTube channel: Walking the Path. Stay updated on my story . . .? A Veteran’s Story. Learn how I’m training and preparing for this amazing adventure. And much more! Please subscribe!

?Walking the Path - My YouTube Channel

Through this ambitious journey, I aim to demonstrate that no matter the depth of one’s struggles, with courage and determination, a brighter path forward is possible. Every step I take on the trail is dedicated to helping veterans reclaim their identities, find value in their lives, and discover hope in the most challenging of circumstances.

Key Points

• Personal Growth: you can transform your life through hiking, dietary changes, and endurance training.
• Podcast for Veterans: the "Trail to Transformation" podcast shares personal and veteran stories to foster connection and growth.
• 2026 Goal: I intend to complete the Appalachian Trail as a tribute to perseverance, symbolizing hope for veterans everywhere.

Important Takeaways

1. Purpose Drives Change: My journey exemplifies how finding a meaningful mission can guide recovery and personal transformation.
2. Nature as Medicine: Hiking and outdoor activity have become therapeutic tools for mental and physical well-being.
3. Community is Key: Building connections and sharing experiences can significantly aid the healing process.

Wisdom and Insight

In my own eyes, my life story is a testament to resilience. In fact, the word “resilience” is my main stain for 2025 and beyond. My motto, “If I can make this my reality, you too can do something amazing with your life.” Please be encouraged to pursue your bold goals despite the struggles and obstacles that stand in your way.

How You Can Support

Dr. McNally’s Appalachian Trail hike relies on your support:

• $1 = 1 mile
• $5 = Lunch
• $10 = Overnight stay

Ways to Contribute

• Donate to help fund the hike and inspire veterans.
• Share Dr. McNally’s story and podcast to spread the message of hope.
• Join the "Trail to Transformation" community to connect with others seeking growth and healing.

GoFundMe . . .

My GoFundMe Page . . .

Call to Action

Every dollar matters in supporting my journey and mission. Beyond donations, you can help by sharing my story with friends, following my progress online, and encouraging veterans in your life to seek connection and purpose.

Together, we can take this mission from the trail to transformation—and beyond.

I appreciate your support!

And I’ll see you on the trail!

More from Keith J McNally . . .

Suicide Survivor

As you know, I am training to hike the Appalachian Trail in 2025. This is called a thru-hike because I intend to hike the entire trail northbound from Springer Mountain, Georgia, to Katahdin, Maine. Please consider supporting the hike through my GoFundMe page.

For more information, click the link below for Walking the Path.

As a five-time suicide attempt survivor, I recognize the importance of human connection. When I wanted to die by suicide, I had no one to turn to, to trust in, or tell my story to. This is a lonely experience . . . an experience no one should go through. My mission is to have conversations . . . and to change the conversation . . . so we are connected and feel validated for our own feelings.

Your Story Matters

If you have made the attempt to end your life, let’s talk. I would like the opportunity to share your story with the world. If you have been left in the wake of someone who has died by suicide, please share your story with me as well.

And if you are still grieving the loss of someone close to you who ended their own life, I know people who can help.

Disclaimer: If you are currently facing levels of stress in your life and are contemplating suicide at this moment, reach out to the credentialed professionals who can help.

SAMHSA & 988 Suicide Prevention Hotline

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline | SAMHSA??? ?

About the Author

As an author, podcast host, and purpose-driven/leadership coach, my goal is to help you to redefine your life, get out of your “stuck” situation, and explore your world so you can create real purpose for your life. My book, Walking the Path – A Leader’s Journey is a must-read for anyone looking to create real impact and meaning for themselves and others. I have a heart for those who find life intolerable and frustrating (even scary) because I’ve been there. My goal is to have conversations with each of you so that you feel appreciated, valued, and secure in yourself. Talk soon!?

-????????? Dr. Keith McNally