With weary legs, our trek goes on
My trek to Tipperary with my mate John marched on this week with the whole spectrum of experiences and emotions as we passed many milestones along the way.
Firstly, we finished the English leg – 14 days, 300 miles, 630,000 steps and 70,000 calories – by arriving in Liverpool, joined as has often been the case by many friends. Sadly we then had to say goodbye to Ian who had been selflessly supporting us for the last eight days.
We then made a ferry crossing to Dublin during which I met a man who, like me, has terminal prostate cancer and was possibly going ‘home’ to Ireland for the last time. He was happy to share the story of his life and came across as a thoroughly decent man. I hope he has more time.
Then on arrival in Dublin, we were joined by Ernie for the last 10 days of our journey and my best mate Jim who has supported me for much of my cancer journey.
Both John and I have some lower leg injuries that are going to make the last 180 miles a real challenge to complete, but I like a bit of jeopardy.
We also beat our fundraising target of £20,000 which is most humbling as we never take it for granted that people will support us when there are so many good causes out there. We’re so grateful.
Our day off in Dublin also allowed me to present to a law firm, meet the mayor of Dublin and sample my first ever pint of Guinness actually in Dublin (known as vitamin G!) while trying to rest our legs so that we gave ourselves the best chance to finish what we have started.
There have been low moments , mainly around the discomfort in our legs, and we can tell when the other is digging deep as they go quiet and just stay in the determined zone. What helps is that every day we have received messages of support from Prostate Cancer UK and we are reminded of the difference we are making on so many levels.
Finally, I received the amazing news that I have been selected as a baton bearer for the Commonwealth Games – what an incredible honour, and I am humbled yet again.
I hope if you also know someone who is taking on a challenge, that you too send positive vibes whenever you can as you may be the difference between success and failure.
Until next week, Kev