The Canyon Lake City Council honored Joan Ke as September Citizen of the Month.
Ke was honored for her volunteerism and remarkable achievements as an avid walker after reaching an impressive milestone of 1,700 consecutive days of walking.
Ke’s walking journey began on December 16, 2021. Since then, she has logged more than 10,000 miles and 20 million steps, walking through a spectrum of temperatures ranging from a chilly 32 degrees to a scorching 109 degrees. Along the way, she has worn through more than 10 pairs of tennis shoes.
Ke has walked every street in Canyon Lake and noted that Inspiration Point, Appaloosa Court, Yosemite Place, and San Joaquin Drive were the most challenging. Ke’s commitment to walking continued even during vacations, including trips to Jerusalem, Canada, Japan, and aboard a cruise ship.
Ke has experienced her fair share of adventures while walking. She has been attacked by geese, bitten by a dog, discovered a $20 bill, and even found an e-bike hidden in the bushes.
Ke said she enjoys walking for its independence, noting that it’s a solo activity that doesn’t require relying on others, unlike team sports.
Beyond her walking accomplishments, Ke is an active member of the Pickleball Club, Lions Club, and Community Gardeners Club.
Ke credits her husband of 51 years, Danny, for being supportive of both her community service and walking journey. “Most of all, I thank God for his goodness to me,” Ke said. I am thankful for His wondrous work in my life.”
