An early blog today to let those people who are concerned know what’s happening at least for the time being. My physio from Bakewell spoke to me this morning and has said that I must have at least 2 weeks rest before returning to some rehab exercises. So that is the end of the road for now.
I’m not in a lot of pain, I just can’t put weight on my leg. Which obviously for a walker is a bit of a disadvantage. So this morning I’ve been sorting out the admin of what I do next. My landlady here at Forest View in Byrness has been as helpful as it’s possible to be, she’s looking after me till I get a taxi to the next B and B in Jedburgh. The people there have already said that they’ll sort me a takeaway for tonight so that I don’t have to go out. And then my friends Dave and Fi have incredibly kindly said that they’ll do an hour’s detour to Jedburgh tomorrow to pick me up and take me home.
I’ve had so many thoughtful messages, for which I’m very grateful. I’m actually fine. Obviously disappointed, as I was looking forward to the Scottish leg, but Scotland will still be there for another time. I am not feeling bereft, more philosophical that this is all part of the journey. How I deal with not being able to go as far as I wanted is part of the challenge I set myself. And so far I feel I’m rising to the challenge.
I might add more to the blog in the coming days, but in case I don’t for a bit, thanks to all who came along for this ride with me. Seeing how many people have read the posts has been a great and very pleasant surprise. I’ve felt like I’ve had people willing me on along the way, including many I don’t know and will never meet. Writing the blog every evening has been something from which I have got a lot of pleasure and satisfaction. It’s given me a chance to process and reflect on what’s happened, but I’ve also enjoyed the process of writing. I think I might do more when I’m back in my normal life.
As I was lying on my bed writing this, a butterfly flew in to my room. It hovered over me for a little while, and rested momentarily next to me so that I could see its wing patterns. Then it rose up, seemingly took a breath and flew out of the open window.
Stats
Total distance over 63 days: 754 miles
Total ascent over 63 days: 92,305 feet (over 3 times the height of Everest. Just saying….)
If you felt like making a contribution to the Thames Valley Air Ambulance to mark the end of the journey for now, then the just giving page is:
Many thanks. X