Harriet Thomas' 900-Mile Journey for Dementia Awareness
Episode Overview
Harriet walked 900 miles to raise funds for Dementia Adventure. She used the journey to cope with the grief of losing her mother. Supportive strangers often donated money along the way. Harriet recorded a podcast documenting her experiences. She faced both emotional and physical challenges during the trek.
I felt like I was bouncing along on this little kind of bubble of love and connection.
In this episode of the UK Health Radio Podcast, Pete Hill chats with Harriet Thomas, who embarked on an extraordinary journey from Land's End to John O'Groats to raise funds for Dementia Adventure in memory of her late mother, Susan. Harriet's 900-mile trek, aptly named 'The D Tour', was more than just a physical challenge; it was a heartfelt tribute and a personal healing process.
Harriet shares how she coped with her grief after her mother's passing by immersing herself in nature and embarking on this monumental walk. Along the way, she encountered numerous people who supported her cause, often donating money on the spot, and recorded a podcast to document her experiences. Her story is filled with touching moments, like the anniversary of her mother's death, where she created a small tribute on a bridge in the West Highland Way.
Harriet also recounts humorous encounters, such as her run-in with a curious bull in Yorkshire. This episode is a blend of emotional reflections, practical advice on long-distance walking, and inspiring stories of human kindness and resilience. Whether you're interested in dementia awareness or looking for motivation to tackle your own challenges, Harriet's journey offers plenty of inspiration.