Grandma Joy Ryan and her grandson, Brad Ryan, from the charming town of Duncan Falls, Ohio, embarked on an extraordinary journey: visiting all 63 National Parks in the United States. Their remarkable adventure commenced in 2015 with a road trip to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Seven years later, after covering over 50,000 miles, they reached their final stop: the National Park of American Samoa, a testament to their unbreakable bond and shared love for exploration.

Known affectionately as "Grandma Joy," Joy Ryan spent nearly her entire life in Ohio. She worked tirelessly at a grocery store deli well into her 80s. Her life was marked by profound loss, having endured the passing of her husband and two sons. Recently, she faced the heart-wrenching funeral of her last son.

In her quiet existence, Grandma Joy often found solace sitting on her front porch or taking evening strolls through a nearby cemetery. She had never seen an ocean's expanse or set foot on a mountain's peak until her grandson, Brad, resolved to introduce her to the world's wonders. Their adventures took them to breathtaking places like Hot Springs National Park, Saguaro National Park, and the Virgin Islands National Park.

Reflecting on the journey, Brad Ryan shared, "The idea of her continuing to spend her days on that front porch, her evenings in the cemetery, instead of being surrounded by the most incredible living things on Earth, was something I couldn't bear. It was my determination to change that, to show her the world's wonders, that set this incredible journey in motion."

Their remarkable journey captured the hearts of many, earning them appearances on TV shows such as the Rachel Ray Show, ABC News, Fox News, and Good Morning America. Along their travels, kind-hearted individuals across the nation offered them bed and breakfast, fueling their determination to see their journey through to the end. Just two days ago, this intrepid duo reached the final park on their list, the National Park of American Samoa.

This dynamic pair's story isn't just about the miles traveled or the parks visited; it's a testament to the transformative power of adventure, resilience, and, most importantly, the unbreakable bond between a grandmother and her grandson. Their journey, marked by shared experiences and mutual support, has left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who followed their odyssey. It's a reminder that the greatest adventures are the ones we share with those we love.

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