A Parent’s Healing Journey: The Story of Barry Adkins
“In those rare occasions when our lives are touched so profoundly, never to be the same again, finding gratitude and the grace of God to never be the same after”.
Finding Purpose in Pain: The Journey of Barry Adkins
On a recent “Life Made Easier” episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down for an interview with Barry Adkins. In this one-of-a-kind interview, Mr. Adkins shared a story that pierces the heart and awakens the soul. His journey is one of unimaginable loss, deep reflection, and the extraordinary decision to transform grief into purpose. This beautiful, soulful man is truly a hero. Deserving of every ounce of respect and is held in high honor as an example of the ideal man, father, and husband.
The Tragedy That Changed Everything
Barry’s son, Kevin, was an ambitious young man, fresh out of high school and ready to take on the world. With a steady job as an electrician, he purchased his first truck with Barry’s co-signature. It was a proud moment for any father. Yet, within weeks, Kevin moved out to begin his independent life, excited for the road ahead.
Shortly after, Kevin attended a housewarming party. Alcohol flowed freely, and amidst the festivities, his friends laid him down after he passed out, assuming he would sleep it off. But in the early hours of the morning, Kevin stopped breathing and passed away alone in a hospital room. The news devastated Barry and his family, a moment forever etched in their hearts.
Turning Grief into Purpose
In the wake of this tragedy, Barry was faced with two choices: succumb to despair or seek meaning in the unthinkable. While retrieving Kevin’s ashes, Barry made a life-altering decision. Inspired by Kevin’s dream of moving to Kalispell, Montana, and the storylines of Kevin’s favorite movie, Lonesome Dove, Barry chose to honor his son by walking 1,400 miles from Gilbert, Arizona, to Kalispell, carrying Kevin’s ashes with him in a backpack.
This wasn’t just a walk; it was a pilgrimage. Barry walked approximately 90 miles each week for four months, embracing the silence, facing the elements, and meeting perfect strangers along the way who offered kindness and compassion. His wife, Bev, supported him by handling logistics, and his daughter joined him for part of the journey, walking alongside her father. The walk became not only a tribute to Kevin but also a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of a father’s love for his family.
Lessons on Addiction, Forgiveness, and Faith
Barry’s story also highlights the insidious nature of substance abuse. Having grown up around alcoholism, I witnessed firsthand the devastation it can bring. His personal experiences and Kevin’s tragic death reinforce his belief that alcohol and drugs often serve as a numbing escape from unaddressed inner pain.
Yet, amid grief, Barry received a profound spiritual message: “Kevin didn’t suffer, and something very good will come from this.” This message became his guiding light, allowing him to share Kevin’s story to help others avoid similar heartbreak. Lesley believes that his work has already saved lives and strengthened relationships once broken within the families his story has touched.
A Shared Journey of Loss and Healing
Lesey, too, shared her personal story of losing her son Anthony at just five months old. His passing, initially a source of deep anger toward God, later revealed an unexpected purpose. Anthony’s participation in an experimental surfactant therapy may have helped save other premature babies’ lives. Both Barry and Lesley found that, in time, their children’s short lives carried lasting, positive impacts.
Walking By Faith, Not Sight
Throughout his journey, Barry encountered countless moments of grace and reflection. Experiencing profound silence atop a mountain. Though he still wrestles with questions, Barry finds comfort in his faith and the support of his non-denominational pastor, who reminds him that salvation is found not through works, but through belief in God’s grace. Found only when we begin truly living as intended, “Living from the Inside Out”
Life Lessons from the Long Walk
Barry’s long journey serves as a metaphor for life itself. Rather than being overwhelmed by the miles ahead, he focused on taking three miles at a time. Life, too, is best navigated by focusing on daily steps rather than distant fears.
Lesley pointed out to Barry how his journey mirrored the “Pleasure Ladder,” where one ascends from personal pleasure to love, meaning, creativity, and ultimately transcendence. Barry’s walk reflected all of these stages, culminating in a profound appreciation for life and the present moment.
A Call to Compassion and Purpose
Barry Adkins’ story is not one of a man seeking fame or fortune, but of a father determined to turn unimaginable loss into a mission of hope. Through his book Kevin’s Last Walk and his ongoing speaking engagements, Barry continues to inspire others to embrace compassion, forgiveness, and resilience.
As Barry so humbly reminds us, hardship can strike anyone. But it is how we respond. Through kindness, self-forgiveness, and a willingness to share our stories, we ultimately shape our lives and the lives of those we touch.
For more about Barry’s story, visit kevinslastwalk.com or connect with him through the Kevin’s Last Walk Facebook page.
To watch the full episode of his interview on YouTube.
May this story serve as a gentle reminder: Even in our darkest valleys, there is always the possibility of light, purpose, and healing.
In grace and gratitude,
~ Lesley Pazdzioch
