You’ll Never Walk Alone

A Hiker’s Memoir of Adventure, Tragedy, and Defying the Odds

Life can change on a dime. Jo Giese was a passionate hiker one day, and unable to walk the next.

A random accident at home and botched surgery resulted in a dead Achilles tendon and left her at a decisive moment—would she no longer enjoy the outdoors as before, or would she battle to find her footing? When you enjoy hiking as much as Giese, the solution is obvious. The way ahead, however, less so.

By all accounts, Giese should still not be walking, let alone leaping from helicopters and seeking out some of the most stunning and remote waterfalls around the world. With significant help from loved ones and medical staff, and relying on her own toughness and positive outlook, she beat the odds and relearned how to walk and pursue the outdoors and her beloved waterfalls as before. Giese was called “a medical miracle” and realized that, indeed, we never walk alone. Giese’s story chronicles her joy, and how she responded when that joy was taken from her. This memoir is certain to have readers sobbing and celebrating, unwilling to come up short with anything less than their best lives. 

You’ll Never Walk Alone will have uncertain hikers getting off the couch, seasoned hikers reaching for their poles, and everybody seeking to express their gratitude no matter what challenges life tosses at them.