Dave, Chuck and I are SO, SO sorry to read of this setback. We were so enjoying your journey and photos. Dogs. Who knew they were a thing riders have to plan for? It would be helpful if there were dog signs posted like the deer crossing next 2mi signs. And you thought the hills were the greatest challenge! We're glad you are pretty much in one piece and that Beth is there now to give you solace. Heal well. We're thinking of you!

Oh MAN that sucks. What a sad way to have the trip end, but at least you're likely to recover fully. That's the key thing.

NOOOOOOOOO!!!! This is horrible, Dave! I feel so bad for you that I really don't know what to write. For your trip to come to an end because of someone's loose dog causing you bodily injury is unimaginable. After I had to bail on my attempt I was living vicariously through you and I enjoyed every post. Hang in there and maybe we should try and do it next year together!

My heart grieves.
I am so dumbstruck by this tragic turn of events. Can’t imagine the heart-crushing anguish you are enduring. Praying for solace.

You’re still my hero.

Dave! Thank God you are able to write us right now. Could have been much worse (believe it or not) but you are going to be OK! Please keep your head up -can't wait to see you back home soon! xoxo Theresa

Gee whiz - what a tough break! You are correct that you had completed the hardest part of the entire crossing. Once you get to Berea it really does get easier. If that dog has an owner it may be time to hire a local lawyer. I wish you the best and hope you get better soon.

Well earned and no doubt a wise decision. Soon, Elizabeth will be heading your way and you can catch up! Very impressive - those legs of yours! Congrats Dave! We love you!!

The hills I just went through over the past 10 days are some of the toughest on the entire route so I was definitely due for a rest day. I did figure in a zero day every 2 weeks for rest, groceries, bike work, and laundry
Glad things get a bit flatter as I head west from here

So glad you listened to your body.
13 days in the saddle and one day off. A good pattern?

You’re doing great, David.
Go west, young man!

Good to rest you AND your trusty bike. Your Dollar Store collection does increase by the day, and sometime twofold. I find it an interesting collection!

Quite the stately and elegant-looking establishment. After two weeks and all that climbing you're definitely due for a break- that looks like a great place for it.

Perhaps some good citizen is simply cleaning up the roadsides and taking them to a recycling center, if such a thing exists in the area.

Perhaps your legs were the blasting zone ? Looks like a pretty decent spot to apply some liniment

You’re going to love the flat midwest.

Agree with Elizabeth. Looks like a good place to reflect on and absorb your accomplishments so far. Wish they had a local masseuse to pummel your legs.

Take care of that body, my friend.