In June 2025, my brother ​⁠​⁠‪@TheRealTedBaird‬ and I were invited by a subscriber, Brandon, to join a self-guided whitewater rafting trip through the Grand Canyon. Rafting the canyon had always been on our radar—we even talked about it during our time on Season 4 of ALONE—but the dream had faded until this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity came along. We had our doubts—neither of us had whitewater rafted before, and the Grand Canyon’s powerful rapids, scorching heat (averaging 103°F), and frigid river temps (around 50°F) posed real risks, including hypothermia. We wold also be a small group of only three people which makes righting a flipped raft a lot more challenging. But the experience was far more than just navigating rapids. We witnessed breathtaking scenery, explored ancient Pueblo dwellings and Hopi salt mines, and spotted rare wildlife like the California Condor and endangered Humpback Chub. Side hikes led us through surreal landscapes—hidden waterfalls, deep canyons, and the magical Havasu Creek. The mix of fear, awe, and adrenaline made it one of the most empowering and unforgettable adventures of our lives.