Page 40 - Winter 2022

These challenges included warnings of thunderstorms threatening the flight out of Atlanta, potentially no rental cars in Baton Rouge, no power at the place they planned to stay and questionable roads from Baton Rouge to Pierre Part. And if that was not enough, there were thunderstorms predicted for the exact place and time of their hunt.
And only one month prior to their departure, my grandfather broke his hip and immediately had surgery. Nonetheless, he was not going to let this obstacle prevent him from living his life.
“Immediately I was very disappointed and somewhat depressed,” explained Roy. “But at the same time, I was determined the injury would not keep me from going. I knew I would work hard at rehab and recover quicker than normal.”
With a goal in mind, Roy recovered quicker than expected and the doctor cleared him for the trip. Judy said she knew that her husband had what it takes to overcome that obstacle, as she
has seen him face challenges in the past with grit and steadfastness.
“He is very determined when he sets his mind to something,” said Kelly, “He doesn't just sit around and think too hard about it. He just does what he has to do. I think adventure keeps you young. It’s always good to have a goal and something to plan and look forward to.”
While some people told Roy he was crazy for going on this trip, he simply laughed and went on. Judy thinks people “limit their experiences way too much by thinking their age could be a hindrance to so many of the new things they could do.”
With that mindset, the family hopped on a plane and headed toward the storm. As if by miracle, Pierre Part had not been hit as predicted due to the storm moving east. The rental car was readily available and the electricity was back on.
Roy claims his broken hip was not even a problem. Of the
PAGE 38 | OCONEE THE MAGAZINE | WINTER 2022
Roy Holmes killed a total of nine alligators on a recent trip.
Courtesy Hansford family