Blistered and bruised, Mitchley reaches the Indian Ocean

Despite having blister upon blister and legs that feel like rubber, Gregg Mitchley of the Gregg Mitchley Foundation (GMF) has successfully walked over 600km from Benoni to Durban, to raise funds for his foundation.

On October 2, he set out on the cross-provincial trek having no idea how, what seemed like a whimsical adventure would pan out.

“I made no arrangements for accommodation or anything else for that matter, I just knew that I had to hit the road and walk to the Indian Ocean all in the name of GMF,” he said.

“This has been an adventure of great proportions. I faced immense heat and extreme cold. My feet have all but rebelled against the long distance but against all odds I made it.”

Other than raising funds for the foundation, that focuses on the plight of children, the elderly and disabled persons, a portion of the funds will assist Paralympian-hopeful Kirsty Weir of East London.

The PTS5 triathlete hopes to participate in the 2024 Paralympics after battling anorexia for six years after which she was diagnosed with neurological lupus, with symptoms including chronic migraines, fatigue and severe pain.

According to Mitchley, he did not expect this endeavour to be as physically and emotionally strenuous but acts of random kindness from motorists and those who heard of his effort have been overwhelming.

“I had truck drivers offering me something to eat and drink, one motorist gave me his shoes while making a donation to the GMF fund,” said Gregg.

“Others stopped on the side of the road to cheer me on and kind-hearted souls arranged accommodation for me or allowed me to spend a night in their homes.

“The out pouring of love has been amazing and for that I am eternally grateful.”

In one of his many Facebook posts, documenting his walk, Gregg reminisced about passing a filling station rest-stop in Pinetown, that served as a beacon for him, as a child, on their way to family holidays.

“My dad would always say that we are almost there, only a little while to go and we have reached the sea,” he said.

“Passing that rest-stop I could almost hear his voice again, telling me that I am almost at my destination.

“The foundation and all I do is because of my mom, dad and the values they instilled in me.”

Mitchley returned home on October 16 and was met at the OR Tambo International Airport by friends and supporters.

For more information or to contribute to GMF, contact Gregg on 083 380 1016, email greggmitchley0407@gmail.com or log on to www.gmf.co.za.

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