Help Make History
The North Pole Expedition
Only seventy-three people have ever completed the Explorer’s Grand Slam. Lonnie Bedwell will be the first to do it blind — and we’re filming every step.
MISSION
Become a first. Inspire Millions
Lonnie Bedwell is on the edge of history.
He’s a U.S. Navy veteran, father of three, and adventurer who has already climbed the highest peaks on every continent, reached the South Pole, and kayaked the Grand Canyon - completely blind. Now, only one challenge remains: the North Pole.
If he succeeds, Lonnie will become the first blind person in history to complete the Explorer’s Grand Slam.
This isn’t just another expedition. It’s not even Lonnie’s job. He spends most of his time talking with and encouraging wounded vets, counseling disabled youth, and building homes in his community. The North Pole isn’t for Lonnie, it’s to make sure his messages of hope and encouragement can reach a wider audience.
When you support this campaign, you’re not only helping Lonnie reach the Pole - you’re helping us capture the final milestone of a long journey to be included in the upcoming Documentary Film "Beyond Vision" currently in production. Your contribution will go to Common Ground Films, a non profit 501(c)(3) organization committed to producing films that bring people together from all different walks of life.
This campaign is:
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Step 1: fund and film the North Pole journey and complete the grand slam
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Step 2: produce the full documentary to move audiences everywhere.
BEYOND VISION
Beyond Vision follows Lonnie’s journey from losing his sight in a hunting accident to conquering the world’s greatest challenges.
But this film isn’t just about a blind man climbing mountains —it’s about learning to live again.
“Vision…is nothing more than a dream unless you do something to turn it into reality.”
— Lonnie Bedwell
The Documentary Film
Before Everest and Denali came smaller victories:
Raising his daughters, returning to work, mowing his lawn.
Lonnie became a “guinea pig” for veteran programs, learning to ski, kayak, and climb from scratch.
Each new skill turned him into a guide, helping other blind or disabled veterans do the same.
He’s now a National Geographic Adventurer of the Year and the first blind kayaker to paddle the Grand Canyon.
At home in Dugger, Indiana, he still builds houses and helps neighbors —skills he’s mastered since becoming blind.
People often wonder what drives Lonnie forward:
When you watch the film, yes, you will be inspired to do more in your life — but you’ll also come to know the man behind the “Inspiration Poster” and what it truly takes to inspire others.
LONNIE'S JOURNEY:
Why This Film Matters
Lonnie’s journey isn’t only about reaching the North Pole.
It’s about changing what people believe is possible.
When someone breaks through a limit that the world assumes can’t be crossed, it shifts the line for everyone who comes after. That’s the deeper purpose of this expedition — to show that blindness, or any barrier, doesn’t define potential.
By finishing the Explorer’s Grand Slam, Lonnie is opening a door for others to see ability in a new way.
This film aims to carry that spark to millions — to classrooms, teams, companies, and families who see Lonnie and think, “If he can, maybe I can too.”
DONOR RECOGNITION
Be Part of the Story
Every contribution moves Beyond Vision closer to completion. By supporting this film, you’re helping share Lonnie Bedwell’s extraordinary journey — and amplifying a message that’s already changing lives.
Your gift will be acknowledged in lasting ways that honor your belief in what’s possible.
Below are the recognition levels for donors who help bring this historic story to the world. Each higher tier includes all acknowledgments of the tiers below it.
💬 For Custom Sponsorships
$25,000+
For corporate sponsors, foundations, or major donors, we’re happy to design tailored recognition that align with your mission and values.
📩 Contact us at giving@commongroundfilms.org or set up a call to discuss how you or your organization can be part of this historic project.
PRODUCTION: Status and Budget
What We’ve Accomplished
Beyond Vision has been in the making for several years — following Lonnie across mountains, rivers, and continents to tell a story that’s bigger than adventure itself. With your help, we’re ready to capture the final journey.
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7 of 7 Summits Completed — including Everest, Denali, and Kilimanjaro
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South Pole Expedition Complete — Lonnie successfully skied to the South Pole
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Global Footage Captured — We have filmed and secured licensing agreements for footage from expeditions across four continents
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Production & Filmmaking Underway — interviews and cinematic storytelling already in progress
Every dollar raised brings us closer to completing the overseas portion of the film — and bringing Lonnie’s journey, message, and legacy to audiences around the world.
THE STORY CONTINUES
Our mission starts with getting Lonnie to the North Pole — but the story doesn’t end there. Now, we need to finish the film — to bring his complete story to life for audiences everywhere.
The next campaign looks to raise $500,000 to complete Beyond Vision: a feature-length documentary years in the making, filmed across continents and guided by the power of resilience, teamwork, and belief.
With your support, we can finish every stage of the filmmaking process and deliver a film that inspires millions.
Support for Global Crews
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We’ve filmed with teams from Indonesia to Russia — documenting Lonnie’s climbs, training, and the communities who made
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them possible.
Your support ensures those crews are fully reimbursed and credited for their critical work on this global project.
Licensing & Archival
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We’ve secured licensing agreements for rare expedition footage from Mount McKinley, Everest, and Antarctica — key moments that show Lonnie’s evolution as an adventurer and leader.
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These final payments and clearances will guarantee that the film can tell the entire story of his path to the Explorers Grand Slam.
Filming in Indiana
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Lonnie’s home is his anchor. We’ll capture intimate footage of his life in Dugger, Indiana — working on houses, mentoring veterans, and spending time with family.
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These scenes reveal the quiet foundation behind his extraordinary achievements.
Kilimanjaro: A Return with Purpose
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Lonnie plans to return to Mount Kilimanjaro— this time guiding a blind and deaf friend who inspired his first climb.
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This journey will be fully filmed, highlighting friendship, mentorship, and the deep impact of shared courage.
Post-Production & Story Completion
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Editing, sound design, music, color, and finishing — this is where years of footage become one cinematic, emotional story.
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Our team will craft the final film, integrating Lonnie’s voice, expedition footage, and home life into a powerful narrative.
Accessibility & Global Release
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To reach as many people as possible, Beyond Vision will include audio description and captions for accessibility, plus a full delivery package for festivals, streaming, and educational use.
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This stage also covers outreach and screenings for veteran organizations, adaptive sports groups, and schools — where Lonnie’s story can truly change lives.
- GOAL -
$500,000
To finish the film and share Lonnie’s story with the world.