Doctor's Orders Put River Expedition on Hold

Frank Way has had to take his sled out of the water on doctor’s orders after he developed an infection from severe chaffing on the back of his knee and lower back.

Frank Way began his expedition on the December 1st from Taupo and was aiming to travel the 425km long Waikato River over the 12 days leading up to Christmas Eve. However, yesterday evening the call was made to put the expedition on hold just shy of reaching Ngaruawahia.

Frank saw a doctor yesterday evening after the pain from a rash on the back of his knee became worse than usual and further sores developed on his lower back. The doctor told him he needed to stay out of the water to allow the wounds to heal otherwise they would just get worse.

Steve Knibb who was with Frank every step of the way as part of the support crew said “Frank is really gutted, he really wanted to keep going. But I’m glad he was man enough to know when to stop and not put his health at risk”.

An explanation from Frank Way can be found on his website www.waikatoriverexpedition.co.nz/ where photos of the journey so far can be viewed.

Frank said “we’ll definitely finish it in the New Year, but I just want to let you all know that it’s over at the moment. I’m quite gutted really, but the doctor has made the call so we will go with it and keep you posted”.

At this stage Frank plans to continue the journey from where he stopped at Horotiu from the 2nd of January 2010.

Frank is doing the expedition to raise money for the Prostate Cancer Foundation and for his Dad who has been diagnosed with terminal prostate cancer. People can show their support by calling 0900 454 454 to donate $20 to the Prostate Cancer Foundation or visit http://www.fundraiseonline.co.nz/frankway/

ENDS