Story
In September 2026, at the age of 65 and immediately following my retirement after a 45-year career as a geologist, I will set out on one of the world's most famous pilgrimages — the 570-mile Camino Francés across northern Spain.
Your generous donation will help Dorset Mind continue their life-changing work and will inspire me through each of the 1.3 million steps starting in the small French town of St-Jean-Pied-de-Port, over the 1430m Col de Leopoeder pass in the Pyrenees, and onward to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. For 35 days the daily routine will be reduced to little more than sleep, eat, walk, reflect, and repeat.
As Chairman of Swanage Sea Rowing Club, I have seen first-hand how physical activity, friendship, and being part of a supportive community can have a profound impact on mental wellbeing. Many of our members openly talk about how rowing has helped them through difficult periods in their lives, providing purpose, companionship, exercise, and a sense of belonging.
Through fellow rower and Dorset Mind colleague Nick Rowe, our rowing club has partnered with Dorset Mind at Dragonboat races and a under 25 regatta, helping to raise awareness of the vital work they do throughout Dorset. It therefore feels entirely fitting that this challenge should support a charity whose values resonate so strongly with me and many people I know.
I will not be walking alone. I will be joined by my good friend Lance from Colorado, who recently lost his daughter, Leslie, to breast cancer last year. My own struggles with mental health have included depression. The Camino offers something increasingly rare in modern life, simplicity and a unique opportunity to unplug from the modern world with quiet self-reflection. The long hours on the trail will provide time for quiet thought, spiritual reflection, gratitude, and an opportunity to process mental health challenges while appreciating the blessings we have received along the way.
The charity I have chosen to support, Dorset Mind, has been helping people across Dorset with their mental health for more than 75 years. Their work changes lives by providing essential services for both adults and children, including counselling, wellbeing groups, mentoring, and mental health support within GP surgeries. Every day they help people facing challenges that can often feel overwhelming and isolating. Dorset Mind's work ensures that support is available when it is needed most.
This walk will undoubtedly bring physical challenges: mountain climbs, long days, tired legs, sore feet with painful blisters and whatever weather northern Spain decides to throw at us. Yet knowing that every mile walked and every step taken can help support Dorset Mind will be a tremendous source of motivation.
If you are able to support me, no matter how large or small the donation, I would be incredibly grateful.
Thank you for your support.
Buen Camino!
Adrian Charters
