Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

I finally have my own page! Mum has set it all up under my strict supervision (as in: me breathing down her neck at every word she types...).

I'm a bilingual (French-English) 20-year old model with Down syndrome and looking forward to adding my very own medal to the fast growing family collection (mum and dad have been doing challenges for many years now)!  It will be a huge challenge for me as I've never been one to walk for long anywhere really (even for shopping, it tires me out!), or even exercise! But take me to a party and I'll dance all night! 

I started a tiny little bit when I was given a FitBit, and then a few months later, mum suggested we could train for the 1st quarter of the Thames Path Challenge. I didn't quite jump up with joy at the prospect. To be honest, I thought it was such a daft idea! But then, I was offered the whole walking kit on my 20th birthday and got really excited and motivated: a rucksack, a pair of boots, a pair of trainers, walking poles, a hat, and of course a great pair of wireless earphones so I could listen to my music and forget I was walking. At least, that was the plan!

We started training in May with a 5km walk. Didn't go so well (as in nightmarish, hellish!!) and Mum nearly gave up there and then! I don't like the wind nor the rain and my feet need a lot of TLC. Just saying....

Anyway, within 2 months, I've managed to walk my way up to 15km in 3 hours!!! I've had to take a few breaks due to modelling commitments and health issues but we are pretty confident I could train up to 20km by the date of the challenge.

We are not worried about how long it will take me but crossing the finish line is my main goal!

My team name is: Elle List 2019, as I was in the Elle Uk magazine in June as one of their 50 new generation game changers. No pressure, then, hey?!!!

I'm doing it all for the DSA, as they were the first ones to reach out to my parents when I was born in Saudi Arabia (the 1st of a brood of 3). Mum and dad were so relieved to read through all the literature they were sent! It just feels right, like a full circle!

You can follow me on Instagram: @kathleenhumberstone, Facebook: Kathleen Humberstone, or Twitter: @KathleenHumber4  (Very original names, I know...).

Thank you for your support, whatever it is, however it manifests itself and wherever you are!! xx

Wish me luck!!

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