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Why the Pilgrims Way?

Going beyond the supposed limits of human performance. It’s not just about pushing the physical body, though that’s part of it. It’s about fundamentally changing the way the brain works.

Since my Parkinson’s diagnosis, I have changed the way I exercise; I no longer train to win, or to look good and or to maintain weight. I now exercise for my brain and to slow the progression of my disease.

When the Parkinson’s Centre for integrated Therapy launched in Canterbury, on World Parkinson’s Day, 11th April 2023. I witnessed fellow Parkie Krish Nair’s extraordinary challenge of climbing to Everest base camp.

This got me thinking - how can I challenge myself to do something that doesn’t involve flying to a different country, or potentially falling off a mountain? I knew I was capable of running and hiking, but how and where could I attempt a potentially gruelling and inspirational challenge? When my friend Jess said that she wanted to run part of the Pilgrims Way, from Wye to Canterbury in aid of PCIT, this inspired my thinking - why not run/walk the entire Pilgrims Way in a week. The journey begins in Winchester and rather appropriately finishes in Canterbury, the home of PCIT and my place of birth.

Six days of 20 to 30 miles per day. Could I do it?

Firstly, I ran this past my husband Mike, who has been my (long suffering) support crew for various challenges over the years, marathons, ultras and mountain hikes. In 2015 he expertly supported me and my 3 team mates over 100 km along the South Downs, where we finished in 1st place and broke a 10 year record. Unfortunately, an hour later from our podium position I became severely unwell! If it wasn’t for Mike‘s handiwork, (he is anaesthetist) I might not of made it!

Remarkably, he was on board with my idea. However, only if I “train sensibly and organise the challenge with military precision” he said.

Then, it was a “yes”, from Mike!

And so the training begins…

This will be a combination of running and walking for the next 6.5 months. Slowly building up the mileage and time on my feet.

I will be taking every step for PCIT, it’s current and future members. I hope to raise awareness of Young Onset Parkinson’s Disease.

I would also like to thank the University of Kent and the Parkinson’s Centre for Integrated Therapy for giving me purpose and positivity.

I am equally excited and terrified to take on this personal and purposeful challenge.

Thank you

Sarah Frow, PT with PD!

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