Cary D. Lowe and his wife Trish Butler have turned travel into a testament of resilience, repeatedly overcoming obstacles posed by Trish’s multiple sclerosis. Their journey is filled with heartwarming moments and showcases the kindness of strangers as they explore various destinations, including Slovenia, Alaska, and beyond. A memorable incident occurred at a seafood restaurant in Ljubljana, where a waiter, recognizing their challenge with stairs, rallied three colleagues to carry Trish and her 70-pound mobility scooter up the steps. This act of generosity became a phrase the couple cherished: “Stairs are no problem.”
The couple’s adventures highlight not only their determination but also the support they receive from those around them. Cary, a former land-use lawyer, and Trish, an environmental consultant, met through their professional paths in San Diego. Their relationship blossomed during a trip to the Pacific Coast Builders Conference in 2000, leading to marriage in 2007. By then, Trish was using a walker, yet their shared love for travel remained undeterred.
Cary’s experiences with his first wife, who faced severe health challenges before her death in 2000, prepared him for the journey ahead with Trish. He observed that many individuals with disabilities often felt limited by their circumstances. This inspired him to pen his second book, “On Two Legs and Three Wheels,” published after his retirement in 2023. The memoir aims to encourage others to embrace travel, proving that it is “absolutely feasible” despite disabilities.
Their travels have taken them to extraordinary places, including a bus ride to the Arctic Ocean, which involved two days on a rugged dirt road. In Paris, they encountered challenges like a malfunctioning bus ramp, but fellow passengers willingly assisted, lifting Trish and her scooter aboard. At the Arctic Ocean, Trish received a certificate for being the “first scooter at the Arctic Ocean,” much to the delight of oil field workers who were intrigued by her mobility device.
Despite the joys, not every trip was smooth sailing. A visit to Sequoia National Park in winter presented icy pathways and equipment issues. In Paris, when Trish’s scooter charger failed, Cary pushed her around the city for three days until a replacement arrived. Through these experiences, Cary shares practical advice for couples facing similar challenges.
“Don’t feel that you need to do everything together on a trip,” he suggests. “While I would scuba dive, Trish would enjoy a leisurely breakfast and read.” He also emphasizes the importance of thorough research before traveling. Calling hotels to inquire about accessibility features can uncover critical information that guidebooks may overlook.
Their dedication to each other shines brightly, especially as they navigate Trish’s recent health setbacks, including a serious blood infection. Cary has taken on the role of caregiver, ensuring Trish’s needs are met, from medical appointments to daily tasks. He reflects on their commitment: “This is what we signed up for. For better or for worse, sickness and in health. We made that commitment, and out of love and commitment, you do these things.”
A touching moment occurred during a trip to Kauai in 2018, when a couple nearby paid for their dessert and sent over a handwritten note expressing admiration for their love. The note read: “To the lovely couple by the windows. As newlyweds, it’s so nice to see another couple show us what true love is! God bless. XOXO M&M.”
Through caregiving challenges, Cary remains passionate about writing. He is working on a new thriller inspired by his legal career, emphasizing that the most meaningful journeys are not measured by distance but by the will to keep moving forward, one step— or one wheel— at a time. Their story exemplifies how love and determination can triumph over adversity, inspiring others to embrace life’s adventures, regardless of the obstacles they may face.
