Help me make it meaningful
In November, I’ll be setting out to walk Te Araroa, meaning “The Long Pathway”, a roughly 3,000 km trail stretching the length of New Zealand from Cape Reinga in the North Island to Bluff at the bottom of the South Island.
I’m walking in memory of my brother, Chris, who we lost to suicide last year.
I called this journey A Long Walk with Chris because, I’ll be carrying him with me for all 3,000 km, on one last adventure together across Middle-earth. 🤍
With everything I need on my back, I'll make my way across New Zealand on foot. There will be long days, difficult days and probably plenty of moments when I wonder what I’ve gotten myself into, but I’ll also be walking through some of the most beautiful places in the world and doing something I know Chris would have loved.
I’m using this journey to raise funds for the Black Dog Institute to support their crucial mental health research, support services and suicide prevention work.Â
I wish more than anything that Chris were still here. I can’t change what happened, but I hope that by sharing his story and this journey, I can raise awareness and funds for suicide prevention and perhaps help make a difference for someone else.
Although this may be One Last Walk with Chris, it certainly won’t be the last time I walk with him. Chris was the person who nurtured my love of the outdoors, and I know I’ll think of him on trails, mountains and adventures for the rest of my life. Being outside is one of the places I still feel closest to him.
Every donation, no matter the amount, means a lot. If donating isn’t possible, sharing this page or following along with the journey is another wonderful way to support it.
This one’s for you, Chris. 🤍
Love,
His youngest sister,
Katie
