Beyond Vision

Ten years. Seven continents. The world’s most unforgiving terrain.

One Man’s Mission to Inspire

Meet Lonnie Bedwell. Blind Adventurer

Hails from Dugger Indiana. Father of three. In his daily life he builds houses, fixes plumbing AND he is on a mission to complete the Explorers Grand Slam. Not to mention that he is 100 % blind.

From REI and Blueline Pictures: See Lonnie’s origin story

This short film, presented by REI and produced by Blueline, gives a taste of how Lonnie’s loss of eyesight feeds his zest for life, and how he uses this newfound passion to help other veterans with disabilities. Much of the creative team behind this short film is involved in Beyond Vision, including its executive producer, director, editor, and director of photography.

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Beyond Vision is Lonnie’s Next Chapter

The Story Behind the Climb

A Documentary Feature

Lonnie Bedwell is chasing the Explorers Grand Slam — the tallest peak on every continent, plus both poles. But this isn’t just another story of overcoming the odds. After losing his sight in a hunting accident, Lonnie became the first blind person to kayak the entire Grand Canyon. His next challenge isn’t just physical — it’s emotional, relational, and deeply human.

Beyond Vision will follow Lonnie in a vérité-driven, scene-first style — capturing moments of humor, burden, and grace as they naturally unfold. Yes, we’ll cheer as he climbs mountains. But the real power lies between his public feats and private realities: climbing Everest one day, struggling to find his razor the next.

This is a film about presence over polish — not putting Lonnie on a pedestal, but showing what it means to truly carry others forward.

This story is as much about Lonnie at home as it is about him abroad

The films mission is the put a megaphone on Lonnie’s greater mission of showing people what is possible. The film will explore how Lonnie became blind and found his way into a new life. Along our adventures we meet new friends who help Lonnie on his journey. But the mountains climbed are only part of the story.

Our Film’s Mission

Life in Indiana

When he’s not tackling the world’s highest peaks, Lonnie is tackling challenges of everyday life, lending a hand to those who need it.

Film Status

Lonnie has completed 7 of the 9 challenges of the Grand Slam. This summer he traveled to Russia to conquer the tallest mountain in Europe and now is off to Australia and Oceania to conquer summits. Spring of 2026 brings the North Pole. We are actively fundraising to finalize the travel costs of the trip and to raise money to create the film. Please reach out if you are interested in supporting the Film.