Tynk, for whom speech is difficult, in a still from a video she recorded in praise of the challenge.
On New Year’s five years ago, Tynk Robertson was an active, outdoorsy person. The following morning she was in agony and unable to get out of bed. #walk1000miles has helped to free her from a living nightmare.
‘I was an avid outdoor person. Then on New Year’s Day I woke up in hell. My whole body swollen, my joints on fire and my throat so sore it hurt to breathe. I tried to get out of bed… not a chance. Three months later I was diagnosed with Sjogrens syndrome, an underactive thyroid and rheumatoid arthritis. I also lost the ability to talk. My vocal cords were paralysed and doctors have no idea why, so my total isolation was complete – unable to interact verbally or physically. The worst of all the symptoms is the chronic fatigue and brain fog. Some days getting out of bed is a massive task because I have no energy.
‘Come 2021 I gave myself a new focus – walk 1000 miles. Why not?! I started with small local walks and gradually increased. It’s been an amazing journey that’s given me my love for the outdoors back, and made me realise I can still get out, enjoy and achieve. When I put my boots on and walk my problems disappear and I can see the way ahead – I think I’d go batty if I couldn’t walk.
Tynk in her happy place.
‘I met fellow challenger Sue McKnight through this challenge and we’ve walked most of it together – she’s a great walking buddy. I struggle socially but, when meeting people for walks, it’s never an issue and has helped me enormously. Being part of the #walk1000miles community is incredible! Everyone is amazing. The community is one of the kindest, supportive, positive and caring I’ve belonged to. I love being a part of it.
‘To anyone in a similar situation to me, never let the illness win. Take your time to come to terms with it, Acknowledge your limitations… then smash them! You’ll be surprised what you can achieve.’
