This is a photo of Angela Campbell on the Golden Gate Bridge.

Angela at the Golden Gate Bridge, which has long fascinated her.

Late last year, we wrote about Angela Campbell’s approaching dream-come-true trip to see the Golden Gate Bridge. The award-winning self-advocate from Madison, Wisconsin, mentioned her longing to visit the iconic landmark during her acceptance speech at an event hosted by The Arc-Dane County. Other award winners were also present: County Executive Joe Parisi, who authorized and encouraged the Dane County Regional Airport to sponsor its first Wings for All event for individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities, and Brent McKyzer-Henry, the airport’s marketing and communications director, who was tremendously supportive of The Arc-Dane County’s efforts in organizing Wings for All. They were accompanied by Airport Director Kim Jones and a representative from Delta Air Lines, which had provided the plane and flight crew for the event. They say it takes a village. That evening Angela’s infectious speech inspired these other honorees to put their heads together and begin planning to sponsor a trip for her.

Angela’s three-day visit, during which she was accompanied by her Goodwill case manager/job coach Kathy Walters, is now a treasured memory. She loved her first plane trip and refers to the Golden Gate as “my bridge.” Says Kathy,”Watching Angela’s excitement once the bus crossed the bridge brought tears to my eyes—she was so full of happiness!”

While in San Francisco, the pair also saw the Pier 39 sea lions, visited Coit Tower on Telegraph Hill and took a boat tour that passed by Alcatraz.

“Angela loved San Francisco,” says Kathy, “and she can’t wait to return.” She works for a local car dealership and is already saving up for her next trip.

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