Thames Path Challenge for Parkinson’s UK

On Saturday 7 September 2019 the Xyla Health & Wellbeing team took part in the Thames Path Challenge to raise money for Parkinson’s UK. One team member, Karl, shares his experience of the day with us.

“I work closely with Health & Wellbeing, and I noticed from day one how very committed all my colleagues are to the cause of empowering people to live healthier lives for longer. When I was invited to take part in the Thames path Challenge, I didn’t need to think twice before agreeing.

Hauling myself out of bed at 4.00am on a Saturday and making the trip through London across the Thames was daunting, but the minute I reached the start line and saw the motivation and enthusiasm of my colleagues who were also giving up most of their weekend, it made the effort worthwhile.

Fortunately, the weather held out, and I trekked through 28km of the South-East’s most scenic greenery meeting colleagues and fellow participants from across the country. Many Health & Wellbeing colleagues completed the 50km and the 100km routes, either walking or running; unbelievable commitment and effort, hats off to them.

The route was scenic and well-signposted, and the moral support that walkers and runners gave each other ensured that no-one felt alone or was left behind. Crossing the finish line was a real sense of achievement and crowned a lovely day out socialising with colleagues and meeting new people.

We’ve raised funds for Parkinson’s UK and done what we can to add visibility to the charity’s ongoing efforts to combat a condition directly affecting 145,000 people with a diagnosis of Parkinson’s in the UK in 2018.

I’d thoroughly recommend that, if you’re fit enough and want to support a great charity, you take part in next year’s challenge. I’ve already pencilled next year’s Thames path Challenge into my diary…”

To find out more about why the team took part in the walk and to donate to a worthy cause click here.