Tonight, as the clock strikes midnight, Joe Rowsell will be taking on the challenge of his lifetime. He’ll go solo on a marathon, 24-hour, non-stop walk to raise money for the ME Association.
These boots have already carried him through hours of training. Now they'll face their greatest test as he begins his 70-mile hike along the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal to raise money for the ME Association.
Joe is taking on the challenge because he wants more money to go into research into the illness – which has dogged the life of his mum, Petina, for years.
“I'm all set! I'm just resting now so I'm ready for the hike!”, said Joe last night from the family home in Llanbedr, near Crickhowell, not far from the Brecon Beacons National Park.
“I've no regrets at all, and I'm beyond grateful for the amount of support I've received. I can't wait to get started”, said the 21-year-old, who is studying to become a personal trainer.
Last week he told us: “It’s predicted to be mostly snowy on the day – but that’s much better than rain! I will be walking for 24 hours straight from midnight on the February the 10th to raise money and awareness for the MEA. Any donation, no matter how small, will be much appreciated.
His hike will start in Crickhowell, go on to Abergavenny and Goytre Wharf to the south of the town, then swing all the way back to Tallybont-on-Usk and finally take him home to Crickhowell.
“It’s a big mental and physical challenge, for sure, but I live in a great area and the canal is so beautiful, especially during sunrise and sunset. I’ll be playing music through my phone so I’ll easily be able to stay occupied and the thought of my mum will help to keep me going.
“My mum has been living with ME for 21 years now and although she tries not to let it take over her life it’s still something she struggles with everyday.”
“If we can bring it some extra money for research into this horrible illness, that will be marvellous”.
Thanks Joe. This is the big day! Take care and best of luck – all your friends will be rooting for you,
To contribute to Joe’s fundraising page, please visit: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/joe-rowsell
The ME Association
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