The Unexpected Journey

What do you do when your mental health reaches its nadir, and your body is failing so badly that you end up in the hospital after having another body spasm and falling down the stairs?

You decide to walk the National Trail running atop one of the highest cliff edges in the country. 

Sure it is a good idea? Yep…

And guess what – I did it! Without falling off the cliff! Although I scored some tumbles, injuring my hip and knee so badly that my right leg was unstable the last few days before reaching the finish line. 

And yes, it took me almost twice as long as other hikers. And, I did not walk the whole 630 miles – just 568.85 miles, skipping the Island of Portland when I got really ill, getting a lift when my hip popped out, and taking some diversions when it popped out again.

But, on the 29th of June 2023, after setting off from Poole 71 days earlier, I finished walking the South West Coast Path. 

And I still cannot believe that I did it!

I live with rather complex disabilities: Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, Developmental Hip Dysplasia, Fibromyalgia, Endometriosis, Hashimoto’s Autoimmune Condition, and suspected Multiple Sclerosis. 

And to top it up, severe Autism, ADHD, and cPTSD. Despite struggling with self-care and self-advocating skills, I walked it solo, unsupported with a tent on my back. And yes, I was mostly wild camping – National Trust guys were not too bothered when I told them. I guess because I was respectful and did not leave any trace. 

Still – I am not a hero. 

So why am I sharing it? 

Because I want you to know that whatever you are going through – you can do anything. 

And it won’t be easy – I was really, really struggling. Yet, despite my loose, unstable, and easily dislocating joints, I kept going. 

I am so glad that I made this crazy decision. It saved my life. And I mean it.

It kick-started my recovery – trauma caused my body to just shut down. But after walking 100 miles, my tremors were gone! Fibromyalgia and Endometriosis pain eased off too!

But that’s not all. After 4-year almost daily abuse, I was petrified of people. Moreover, my past profession caused me vicarious trauma, as I was exposed to the worst part of humanity. I grew to hate the world. And I could not live like this anymore. 

And you know what happened? The South West Coast Path happened. This national trial is more than just a trekking route – it is a community. 

A family of fellow hikers, locals, and people with stories that will break your heart and inspire you. 

When I set off, I wanted to avoid humanity as much as possible and focus on the healing power of nature. Whereas I had so many beautiful adventures involving badger cubs, cows, and wild ponies – people helped me with trauma.

Serendipity

If you asked me to describe my adventure in one word, it would be serendipity. Whenever I was in real need, someone would spring from the earth, offering me support. I started to believe in people and the good in this world again. 

And yes, there is so much more out there on the South West Coast Path, which I would love to tell you about, more adventures – like fording the river, it should not be forded – landscapes and nature. But it won’t fit here in a blog post – so stay tuned for my book – a journal of this adventure: The Unexpected Journey: Adventuring Against Odds.

And remember – never give up!

Cheerio!