’Walking is the medicine that keeps me going’

When 61-year-old Maggie McMahon was struck by ME nine years ago, getting from one park bench to the next was a huge accomplishment. Now she’s hopeful this will be the year she makes it to 1000 miles

“I was a secondary school teacher, and began to struggle walking upstairs to my office, and coping with the demands of the day. I collapsed in my Year 12 A-level class in 2012, and was diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS, also known as ME).

There were numerous low points, such as showering and then needing to lie in bed to recover; staying in bed while family visited; and hiding away on Christmas Day to regain the energy needed to get through. The problem with CFS is that it’s not as easy as saying ‘get over it’ or ‘pull yourself together’. If you push it too far, you’ll set yourself back.

Thankfully, with the wonderful encouragement of my husband, I’d made tiny steps even before my hospital appointment, spending time outside in the fresh air. Once I could do some steps between benches in the park, we then drove a bit further to walk near a river. Gradually, I built up my energy and got back to part-time teaching after 18 months.

Fresh air and walking continues to be the medicine that keeps me going. It really helped me overcome the anxiety and fear that went with the ME. Life isn’t perfect, but bite-size pleasures can be had every day. In September I completed a charity walk for my 88-year-old mum, who has mixed dementia, and for other sufferers.

Whatever stresses or illnesses you have in life, I highly recommend you give walking a go. The #walk1000miles group is very supportive and positive and gave me a focus to keep going. Last year I got to 790 miles, and this year I think I’m more likely to make it to 1000 because of the community inspiration.”