Sabine

My mother, Sabine Bedson, ended her life by suicide 11 years ago by jumping off the bridge over the M54 motorway at junction 3 near Tong church in Shropshire. She was 69 years old, in good physical health and looked a lot younger. Those who knew her will always remember Sabine as a kind and caring lady with a good sense of humour and a genuine interest in others.

Sadly, during most of her adult life Sabine suffered from depression and felt constantly challenged. She lived in a state of anxiety, which increased further after my father’s untimely death. In her later years, Mom also lost her sense of hearing. Her condition worsened, but few if anyone noticed. She was always smiling to the outside world. I too, missed the signs that she was going to take her own life. I am convinced Mom’s suicide could have been prevented. I miss her dearly. I am undertaking this charity fundraiser in loving memory of my Mom.

The Charity

The Samaritans of Shrewsbury are a group of 89 volunteers, who give compassionate support to people in despair and distress, or to people who have suicidal feelings. None of the volunteers receive a salary and they are responsible for all of their own fundraising. The Samaritans listening volunteers are available 24/7, 365 days a year. They actively try to help people, who have reached a crisis point in their lives, especially at night when there are no other support services to turn to.

The activity of the Shrewsbury branch and in the Shropshire community goes on at a busy pace. During 2022, in addition to handling around 8,200 telephone calls and 2,400 emails, they were involved in 109 community events and were able to reach around 13,500 people across Shropshire. The Samaritans of Shrewsbury have a significant impact in reducing the number of suicides in Shrewsbury and around Shropshire.

The Challenge

For the past three years I have enjoyed hiking in our beautiful county Shropshire and become a passionate long-distance walker. For this challenge, I propose to walk 100km (=62 miles) in one day – this will be the longest walk I have ever attempted.

I will start this charity walk at midnight on Saturday 1st July 2023, or if the weather prevents it, on the next free day I have in July where there are suitable conditions. I plan to walk an extended circular route from my hometown Shifnal to Shrewsbury and back again.

In the last year I have won many followers for my Facebook page The Shifnal Rambler, where I regularly post photographs and stories from my walks. Please do check it out and give me a like if you’re interested. On the day of the charity walk, I will post occasional updates showing my progress on Facebook.

I hope many will support me in this challenge. All proceeds will go directly to the Samaritans of Shrewsbury, so they can continue their work saving lives and supporting distressed people in our local communities. Thanks in advance for your support!

Günther

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