Dear Friends,

I am pleased to report that we did it: we have accomplished the trek across Palestine in support of Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP)!   For myself the experience was certainly quite testing but thanks to the support and solidarity of a very diverse, enthusiastic and humorous group of trekkers, and not least the reassuring presence and know-how of our two redoubtable Palestinian guides, Muhanad Banoura &  Nidal Rishmawi,  I was able to stay the course. 

This was a trek through a rugged landscape, steeped in history, but also 
through a social world in which, through a variety of encounters, we
were constantly amazed by the fortitude and tenacity of people struggling to maintain ordinary lives under truly extraordinary conditions.  The whole experience was in equal measure exhilarating,  humbling & troubling.

 I came away with renewed admiration and respect for the humanitarian work that MAP accomplishes in the relief of suffering, and in bringing some dignity into ordinary lives, under constantly trying conditions.   From the conversations I had, there is no sign of light at the end of the tunnel, so MAP’s  indispensable contribution will most likely be required for the indefinite future.  

Heartfelt thanks once again to all of you for sponsoring me in this endeavour and for your support of MAP.

very best wishes

Peter

NB I am adding a few photos from the trek to my page on the Just Giving site.