More on Abby Sunderland

If you've been following the Abby Sunderland story, you may have heard reports that there will be an upcoming reality show (something that's in doubt, BTW), and that Ms. Sunderland has contemplated writing a book. Also, there are people (also WTF, this is soooo not like “Lost”) who don't like any of this.

1) Even if this whole solo voyage around the world thing was a publicity stunt, it doesn't take away from the incredible courage and skill of Abby Sunderland.

2) You have got to be kidding me if you actually think this was a publicity stunt.

When somebody says that something is their dream, I tend to believe them. As a parent, I can't imagine not being terrified at the prospect of my child being out of arms' reach in a dangerous situation for months at a time (my daughter's two, but I strongly suspect I'll feel similarly in the future). I know that Ms. Sunderland is both young, and a woman, but the insuation that Abby Sunderland's parents threw her into the face of danger in order to make a buck offends me on many levels, not the least of which is the way such accusations erase Ms. Sunderland's accomplishments.

I remember being aboard my grandparents' tiny houseboat when I was a young girl. And also, I remember puking into Tampa Bay (or maybe just hiding below deck planning to do so... I dunno, it was a long day). Perhaps some folks are underestimating the difficulty involved in sailing around the world by one's self. Plus, Abby Sunderland, despite her age, showed signs of being at least as prepared as other adventurers over the years. Ponies, Mr. Shackleton?

Attacking celebrities would appear to be one of the main uses of the internet these days. I don't care that some folks are wary of more reality TV (OMG, me too). This brave young woman was just rescued and has not yet been reunited with her family and friends. Could we please give it a rest? Thanks.

In Abby Sunderland's own words:

“Within a few minutes of being on board the fishing boat, I was already getting calls from the press. I don't know how they got the number but it seems everybody is eager to pounce on my story now that something bad has happened.

There are plenty of things people can think of to blame for my situation; my age, the time of year and many more. The truth is, I was in a storm and you don't sail through the Indian Ocean without getting in at least one storm. It wasn't the time of year it was just a Southern Ocean storm. Storms are part of the deal when you set out to sail around the world.

As for age, since when does age create gigantic waves and storms?”

What she said.