Elaine Simmons, 55, from Somerset tells us how she walked from homelessness to happiness, with the help of Walk 1000 Miles.
‘I found solace from walking back since I was in a very abusive relationship. My mum was dying and I was given an ultimatum – either stay with the abuser or go and spend the last two weeks of my mum's life looking after her. I chose to be with my mum before I ended up becoming homeless and living in a tent in Bristol. After a while I reached out to the Compass Centre who help the homeless who helped me get accommodation. I started walking along Bristol harbourside, learning to listen to my heart beat and footsteps. Sometimes it could take me three miles or more to just forget the hurt and pains going on in my life.
I've been doing walk 1000 for the last four years now and it’s saved my life and made me the happiest I’ve ever been. I love this community and I look forward to my monthly magazine. It's been amazing for my mental health and I liken it to walking through a forest and you come to a clearing. The clearing is my peaceful brain.
I've got married to the most amazing person who is so understanding and loves me for me. Walk 1000 mile isa game changer in my life and now I'm so happy to be in this world and every day is a pleasure come rain or shine.’
