Wootton Bridge couple Linda and Paul Southwell have arrived in Rome after walking 1,205 miles from Canterbury, raising £2,744 for The Lily Foundation in support of children with mitochondrial disease.
The couple began their journey on Thursday (16th May), following the ancient pilgrimage route of the Via Francigena over 87 walking days. Their efforts were inspired by local 3-year-old Teddy Ward, who lives with the rare genetic disorder.
Speaking from Rome, Linda said:
“Each penny will help bring us closer to better funding for mitochondrial disease research, alongside vital support for affected families.”
Liz Curtis MBE, Chief Executive of The Lily Foundation, founded the charity after losing her 8-month-old daughter Lily to the disease. She said:
“Huge congratulations to the couple for an exceptional and personal achievement. It was an incredible challenge and Linda and Paul must be very proud. And also a big thank you to the couple for supporting our charity.”
Linda and Paul described their walk as “an overwhelming feeling”, adding that they had embraced “every emotion, every challenge, and every surprise” along the way. They received their final Pilgrim stamp at St. Peter’s Basilica, where volunteers presented them with a certificate marking their arrival.
The journey was not without its challenges. Paul explained:
“Among the many trials, blisters, blue toenails, lost nails, an infected toe, and a fall, it was that infected toe that was the greatest hurdle. It turned every step into agony, demanding care, patience, and planning around resting, while still pushing ahead.”
Their toughest stretch was a 22-mile walk in France without food after overlooking that it was a bank holiday Monday. Fortunately, they had enough water and were given food by a generous Dutch couple.
The Southwells’ experiences included wildlife encounters with snakes, wall lizards, and deer, as well as 29 consecutive days without access to a washing machine. They also experienced wild camping, stays with nuns in Wisques, noisy hostels, and the occasional clean and quiet night. They credited Heathfield Forest Touring Park, Yates Brewery, and Wightlink for their sponsorship, and noted that they completed the entire walk without a single argument.
Now home, Linda and Paul are looking forward to another milestone in January – becoming grandparents.
Such a positive story. Well done