How it all started!

On the 18th of June 2016, Paul had a massive stroke. Long story short, his life changed forever. It wasn’t the best of times for him, learning how to stand and walk, but that wasn’t the hardest part... learning how to write or speak proved to be the most difficult.

Two years ago, a friend of ours, Dave, did the Camino on Paul's behalf; a long, winding road from the south of South of France, to the west of Spain. Texting wasn’t on Paul's radar, so David would send him videos almost everyday, helping him to keep hope alive.

It turned out that walking came back easier that talking... so after a few months Paul got involved with the Stroke Association and they helped him with more rehab and, through them, his loud voice is coming back.

Paul is now a volunteer with the Stroke Association, and works with stroke survivors. He sees firsthand how their Aphasia is holding their voice and words to hostage, just like it has his. His walking is better though, and so, he thought a proper challenge will have to happen... a walking challenge. And he decided to dive fully in and make the Camino de Santiago a good start!

Now, after rehab and much hope, it’s his chance to do it for the people who have brain attacks and lost their voice through stroke... And you guys can help! In three weeks time Paul will have started his Camino Journey to raise much needed money for the Stroke Association. But for the walk to happen, he has to raise the funds to walk the Camino itself; money that will pay for: Accommodation (Albergues [Pilgrim Hostels]), Food and Water.

Altogether Paul need's to raise £2,000 and amazingly by the end of this week he hope's to have raised £1,000. So just £1,000 to go. If you could help in any way it would be much appreciated. Any extra money at the end of the Camino will be added to the raised money for the Stroke Association (those guys will be helping him raise money for their amazing work!) And Paul says he will give out hugs to all who help him... now you can't beat that!