Strength in Sisterhood
Galentine's Reunion: A Journey of Friendship, Challenge, and Purpose
In honor of Valentine's Day, we’re celebrating sisterhood and empowerment with a special Galentine’s reunion. Join us as we reconnect with three incredible women—Lacey Brown, Courtney Albini, and Drew Walsh—who took on the Grand Canyon Challenge in 2018. Known as the "Grand Companions," these women forged an unbreakable bond through shared adventure, faith, and a commitment to setting women and children on a pathway to freedom.
Why They Said Yes
Each woman had a unique reason for joining the challenge. For Drew, it was about stepping beyond financial support and immersing herself in the mission firsthand. She had already traveled to Moldova and witnessed the impact of Freedom Challenge’s fundraising efforts. Now, she wanted to push herself physically and mentally in solidarity with those they were fighting for.
Courtney, a therapist with experience working with trafficking survivors, was drawn to the cause through conversations at the gym with Lacey and Drew. Wanting to challenge herself spiritually and physically, she embraced the adventure wholeheartedly.
Lacey, Tracy’s niece-in-law, initially felt daunted by the challenge but found motivation in the camaraderie of her teammates. Though she wasn’t an experienced outdoorswoman, her passion for supporting vulnerable women pushed her past her fears.
A Journey of Strength and Resilience
The Grand Canyon Challenge tested them in ways they never imagined. From carrying 50-pound backpacks to navigating treacherous descents, each woman faced moments of doubt and struggle. Drew recalls the terror of stepping down into the canyon, while Lacey battled physical discomfort from an ill-fitting pack. Courtney, experienced in backpacking, found herself unexpectedly stretched by the emotional and spiritual demands of the experience.
Yet, through every challenge, they leaned on each other. Whether it was encouraging words, shared tears, or simply the presence of a trusted friend, the bond of the Grand Companions carried them forward.
Lessons and Transformations
Looking back, the experience was transformative. Courtney recalls staring at the stars, learning to tell time by them, and realizing how unprepared she felt. Yet, as they reflected on survivor stories each night, they found strength in knowing their struggles were temporary—unlike the reality faced by so many trafficked women and children.
For Drew, the realization that trafficking survivors don’t have an “end date” to their suffering was a profound shift in perspective. The hike, though grueling, had a finish line. But for those trapped in trafficking, the battle continues until organizations like Freedom Challenge step in to help.
Lacey, once a self-proclaimed non-camper, learned that she was far stronger than others expected. Despite the doubts of some, she completed the challenge and found herself deeply moved by the reality of trafficking, even in her own backyard in San Diego.
Favorite Memories
While the challenge was intense, it was also filled with joy. Courtney fondly remembers Tracy pulling out a hidden Snickers bar at the perfect moment, bringing laughter and delight to the group. Drew recalls the simple pleasure of cooking together after an exhausting day. And Lacey treasures the night before their descent, when she reassured her teammates that in just 72 hours, they’d be back in a warm bed, victorious.
One Word to Describe It All
When asked to sum up their experience in a single word, the Grand Companions shared:
Drew: Empowering
Lacey: Uplifting
Courtney: Life-changing
Your Turn to Say Yes
If their story has inspired you, consider taking on your own Freedom Challenge. Whether it’s a physical challenge, intentional prayer, or generous giving, there’s a place for you in this movement.
Upcoming opportunities include:
Arkansas Challenge – March 29th
New York City Challenge – May 17th
Adirondack Challenge – September 17-21st
Check out thefreedomchallenge.com/join-us for more details and join a community of women making a real difference. Because together, we can do good, challenge ourselves beyond what we thought possible, and stand in the gap for those who need us most.
Are you ready to say yes?
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