CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va., June 18 (UPI) -- A 14-year-old Florida boy says an accident involving his sister forced him to suspend his 1,100-mile walk to highlight the needs of homeless kids.
Orlando resident David Ashby said in an e-mail he would eventually continue along his lengthy trek, but not until after he spends time with his injured 10-year-old sister, Aubrey, the Orlando (Fla.) Sentinel said Thursday.
"I am sorry if this delay inconveniences anyone," Ashby said, "but my family comes first, and I must be there for my sister in this crisis. I promise to return very shortly. My mission will not be complete until I return and continue my trek."
Ashby's sister suffered a brain injury Tuesday when she fell face first off her bicycle. She is set to undergo surgery at the University of Virginia Medical Center in Charlottesville, Va., the Sentinel reported.
The newspaper said Ashby began his cross-country journey on Monday and had planned to visit homeless shelters along his route while traveling an average of 21 miles a day. Ashby had been in DeLand, Fla., when he received the news of his sister's injury.
