Dr. Jeremy Bingham, a dermatologist based in Mesa, not only tends to skin ailments but also explores the depths of the Salt River with his family. In the heart of northern Mesa, he has built Bingham Dermatology into a family-oriented medical office over the past 11 years, involving his two brothers as physician assistants and two sisters as aides. Even his two sons, Taylor and Zachary, actively engage in family outings such as kayaking and underwater diving along the Salt River, near the Goldfield Mine in Apache Junction.

A Bingham Family Tradition

For the Binghams, exploring the Salt River has been a cherished family pastime since Jeremy’s childhood. This recreational activity helps them beat the scorching summer heat. Notably, their excursions have led to unexpected encounters with Dr. Bingham’s patients, who, upon recognizing him, often inquire about his sun protection practices.

A Remarkable Discovery: Unearthing a 28-Year-Old Wallet

Last spring, during one of their diving sessions, Dr. Bingham stumbled upon a tattered wallet 15 feet below the river’s surface. The wallet, lost in 1995, had become a time capsule, preserving relics like Sears and JCPenny credit cards. Dr. Bingham speculated that the wallet resurfaced due to the substantial water release from Saguaro Lake during an unusually copious winter runoff.

Exploring the Salt River’s Hidden Treasures

Diving into the Salt River during the summer and fishing throughout the year, the Binghams have uncovered various items, including phones, rings, jewelry, knives, sunglasses, and even a functioning iPad. Despite these finds, Dr. Bingham emphasizes that the river is not lined with gold, dispelling any misconceptions about its contents.

Reconnecting with the Past: The Wallet’s Owner Emerges

The wallet contained a driver’s license, propelling Dr. Bingham into a months-long quest to locate its owner. Eventually, he tracked down Julia Hsia of Chicago. In 1995, Julia had lost the wallet during a harrowing incident on the Salt River, involving a near-death experience for her and a 6-year-old boy.

A Near-Tragic Arizona Adventure

Julia Hsia’s ill-fated trip to Arizona in 1995 involved a drive along the Salt River with her then-boyfriend Arnold, her cousin Matthew, and an adventurous attempt to cross the river in a new GM Yukon SUV. Misjudging the water’s depth and velocity, the vehicle began to float downstream, leading to a life-threatening situation. With the help of bystanders, Hsia and Matthew made it to shore, but her wallet and belongings were lost.

Unveiling Deep-rooted Family Struggles

Julia Hsia’s rediscovery of her lost wallet brought back memories of her family’s hardships during the White Terror in Taiwan and her father’s unjust imprisonment. Immigrating to the United States at a young age, Hsia’s family faced challenges, including financial struggles and societal isolation.

A Sign of Hope and Renewal

Despite the wallet containing nothing of significant value, Hsia views its return as a sign of hope, coinciding with the approaching Chinese New Year. Her life journey, chronicled in the book “Limitless Women Overcoming Mediocrity,” reflects the resilience and determination needed to overcome adversity.

Rediscovering Lost Moments

The rediscovery of Julia Hsia’s wallet by Dr. Jeremy Bingham highlights the unexpected and often poignant connections between people and the rivers they traverse. Beyond the material artifacts found in the riverbed, this story unveils deep-rooted family histories, personal struggles, and the resilience needed to navigate life’s challenges. As the Salt River continues to flow, it carries with it not only lost possessions but also the untold stories of those who have crossed its path.