One of the challenges that faced both George and Charlene was a complete lack of awareness surrounding stroke survival in South Africa. Once the Foundation was formed, it was time to get it some nation-wide exposure, and so the Bring It On Campaign was incubated.
The goal is to walk from Beit Bridge, in the far north of the country, to Cape Point, in the far south. Yes, this type of walk has been done before, but by able bodied people who averaged between 25 and 40km a day. George, who will be the one tasked with walking the full 2 400km distance, will be aiming at 15km per day, which makes the marathon a full six-month operation. He will be supported, at all times, by Ray Chaplin (Adventurer, campaigner and educator) and will be joined along the way by as many fellow survivors, celebrities and stray dogs as can be persuaded to take part. Charlene will join in for some of the walk, and be the general coordinator.
Is it possible?
Two years ago, when George was released from hospital in a wheelchair, little seemed possible. With support, perseverance and desire, George’s personal rehabilitation continues to reward with daily improvements, through a mantra of adapt, improvise, overcome, and the long walk will be an extension of this, as well as being a symbol of the long-term outlook stroke survivors are faced with: the rest of their lives is a long, long journey, filled with uncertainty.
The SSF aims to give every future survivor’s walk a route, and a goal.
Last updated: 13 July 2010 |
