Highlighting mental health, one step at a time
He is hoping to raise enough funds to start a facility to assist distressed youngsters.
Ronnie Spies from Knysna is attempting the first-ever solo walk around the circumference of South Africa – a distance of some 6000 kilometres.
This feat has never been achieved by an individual before.
Ronnie is undertaking this epic journey to raise awareness of mental health and environmental issues.
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He is hoping to raise enough funds to start a facility to assist distressed youngsters.
After overcoming three suicide attempts, alcohol and drug abuse Ronnie’s life changed some three years ago.
He started the ‘Walking Free Foundation’ and began his journey on September 8 to create awareness that anyone can overcome mental health issues and addictions.
“Anyone can do it – you just have to knuckle down and do it,” he added.
He recently spent a night at John and Carolina Choles’s home in Hibberdene.
Speaking to the Herald, Ronnie said he has met many interesting people and seen beautiful places with the best scenery.
The ‘stand-out’ place for Ronnie has been the breath-taking landscape of the Transkei.
He is carrying all his belongings – a tent, sleeping bag, food, water and clothes – in his backpack.
Ronnie turns 48 next month, and has given himself until 2020 to finish his travels – he will then be the big 50.
Follow Ronnie’s journey via his Facebook page: Walking Free.
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