One Man & his Med Ball

DAY 3 Galashiels to Consett

Day Three: Galashiels to Consett Tesco Extra

A Shift in Pace – But the Mission Remains the Same

The day started with a moment I’ll never forget. As I got ready to leave from the front of Tesco Galashiels, the team there pulled out all the stops. Early in the morning, they’d organised a piper to see me off in true Scottish fashion. A full troop of colleagues – none of whom knew me – gathered outside, with balloons waving and even dancers there to send me off. That kind of support, especially from complete strangers, hit me hard. It was emotional, uplifting, and exactly the energy I needed to start the day right. It set the tone, lifted my spirits, and reminded me just how many people are rooting for this journey.

Today was a different kind of challenge. After two long days on foot, with blistered heels and aching shoulders, I made the decision to cycle the majority of today’s route – 76 miles in the saddle – before finishing the final stretch on foot. And yes, Medi came with me the whole way – this time tucked into my bag, still part of the journey, still just as heavy in purpose.

The route from Galashiels to Consett was always going to be a tough one, and with the countdown ticking to arrive in Welwyn Garden City on the 25th, I knew I had to make adjustments. To keep on track with the schedule, I opted to cycle a large section of today’s leg while still finishing on foot – making sure every mile still counted, even if completed differently. This isn’t about taking shortcuts. It’s about keeping the promise, finishing strong, and being exactly where I need to be, when I need to be there – for the cause, and for everyone supporting it.

The route itself was long, punishing, and beautiful in parts. Rolling countryside gave way to exposed roads and long climbs that seemed to go on forever. The weather today was winding but kind – a nice breeze and plenty of sunshine. It added a welcome bit of relief to what could’ve been an even harder slog. Some parts were so open and still, it felt like I was cycling through silence, with just the sound of tyres and wind for company.

One stop that stood out came as I reached the England–Scotland border. For a main road, it was surprisingly silent. I paused there for a moment, looking around at the stillness. No cars, no noise – just the sign, the sun, and the sense that I was really crossing into a new stage of this journey. It was strangely peaceful, and it gave me a second to reset before pushing on.

Further along the route, Chloe made her first stop of the day at a small café – the last café in England if you’re heading north. She worked remotely from there while she waited for me to catch up, and when I arrived, we shared a lovely breakfast together. That short break, that quiet moment with her, was something I didn’t realise I needed until I was sitting there. A hot meal, good coffee, and just being together made all the difference.

Eventually, I parked up the bike, pulled Medi from my bag, and walked the final miles into Consett with it back in hand where it belonged. That last stretch, though short, hit hard. My legs were tired in a different way. My arms still sore. And the mental battle was very real.

But the welcome at Tesco Consett Extra made every step worth it. As I arrived, staff stood at the entrance cheering me in, clapping and smiling. A Combat Stress table was set up out front, and donations were flowing in from generous shoppers. Veterans were there to greet me – one even pulled me aside for a quiet, heartfelt chat that meant the world. Then, to top it all off, I was handed a proper cuppa tea. After everything, that little moment of warmth, connection, and support felt like a hug for the soul.

Today’s battle wounds:

• My right heel blister is still with me – ugly, angry, and growing
• Soreness has shifted now into my legs and lower back after the cycling
• My shoulders and arms remain tight from carrying Medi the previous days
• A very sore backside from 76 miles of saddle time – not to be underestimated
• And mentally? Today was draining. The switch in activity helped physically, but I had to really focus to stay on mission

Once again, Chloe has been incredible. Following in the campervan, keeping everything running in the background, checking in, cheering me on – she’s been my anchor. I don’t say it enough: I couldn’t do this without her.

And to everyone from RAFAC – up and down the country – thank you. Your encouragement continues to fuel this mission.

Three days down. 500 miles is still a big number… but I’ve chipped away at it again. Whether by foot or pedal, with Medi always with me, I’m still moving forward.

Bring on tomorrow

DAY 2 Dalkeith Hardengreen to Galashiels

Day Two: Dalkeith Hardengreen to Galashiels

The Journey Continues – Step by Step

Waking up this morning, the aches from yesterday were real – especially in the shoulders and feet – but so was the determination. Leaving Dalkeith behind, I set off on the next leg of this challenge, heading for Galashiels with the medicine ball hanging from my hand, swinging with every step – a constant, weighty reminder of why I’m doing this.

The route today was so beautiful – but definitely tougher than yesterday. Countryside stretched for miles in every direction, with no end in sight. Rolling fields, winding lanes, and long stretches where it was just me, the road, and the silence. It was stunning, but there were moments it felt never-ending – the kind of terrain that tests both your legs and your mindset.

At one point along the route, I stopped by a beautiful stream, tucked away just off the path. It was peaceful, still, and exactly what I needed. I had a quick breakfast – a protein bar and some water – and just listened to the sound of the flowing water. I was close to taking my boots off and dipping my feet in, but thought better of it. Tempting as it was, I knew once they were off, I might not want to put them back on.

About 9 miles in, I stopped for a quick break. I took my bag off and sat down on the ground under a bit of woodland cover. It was quiet, cool, and calm – just what I needed. I stuck Medi – the name me and Chloe have now given the medicine ball – behind my head like a makeshift pillow, and the next thing I knew, I’d had a half-hour siesta without even realising. When I woke up, my muscles ached worse than before, but I also felt just a little bit more human. It was a weird mix of regret and relief.

A big struggle today was the isolation. The terrain I was in meant no internet and no phone signal. That created a whole new obstacle I hadn’t really faced until now – no encouraging messages pinging in, no updates from loved ones, no music to zone out with – just me, my thoughts, and my heavy breathing. It became a mental battle more than a physical one. For the first time, I genuinely thought: I can’t make this. That low point hit hard.

But then, like flicking a switch, I came back into a serviceable area – and my phone went absolutely crazy. Message after message poured in. Words of encouragement, good luck wishes, and support from all over. That moment lit something in me. It gave me the push I needed, the second wind I didn’t think I had. And it carried me to the finish line today.

I arrived in Galashiels in 8 hours and 26 minutes, having walked approximately 19 miles. The pace today felt slower and more challenging, but steady. It was a mental game as much as a physical one, and every step reminded me that this journey is a marathon, not a sprint.

The reception in Galashiels was kind and welcoming. After such a long walk, just a smile, a warm word, or a simple “well done” can make a world of difference. It reminded me how powerful small acts of support really are.

Today’s battle wounds:

• A blister on my right heel that’s now twice the size it was yesterday – painful, but still under control with Compeed and grit
• A migraine, likely from a touch of heat stroke after a long day under the sun – slowed me down a bit, but I managed to push through
• Ongoing soreness in the shoulders and forearms from carrying the medicine ball
  It’s definitely getting tougher, but nothing’s stopping me yet.

And of course, my incredible wife is still right behind me – quite literally – checkpoint to checkpoint in the campervan. She’s the glue holding this mission together, the calming voice, the hot meal, the encouragement when the miles feel longest. I couldn’t do this without her.

Two days down, many more to go – but with every step, I’m closer. Closer to the finish line. Closer to the goal. Closer to helping make a difference for Combat Stress.

Bring on tomorrow.

DAY 1 Edinburgh to Dalkeith Hardengreen!

Day One: The Journey Begins – Edinburgh to Welwyn Garden City

Today, it begins. After months of planning, training, and preparing both mentally and physically, I’ve finally taken my first steps on this 500-mile journey from Edinburgh to Welwyn Garden City – all while carrying a medicine ball.

As I stood at the start point this morning, I was hit by a wave of emotion: pride, nerves, excitement, and a touch of disbelief. The cool Scottish air was bracing, but it helped clear my head. The early morning light caught the skyline just right, and for a moment, everything felt still – like the world had paused to let me breathe before the storm.

The weight of the medicine ball was a sharp reminder of why I’m doing this: to raise awareness and funds for Combat Stress, supporting veterans who’ve faced battles both on and off the field. This isn’t just a walk; it’s a statement of resilience, purpose, and hope.

The night before I set off, I had a conversation that hit me deeply. I spoke to someone who, truthfully, has been the driving force behind this entire journey. Without her support, motivation, and belief in what this walk represents, it might never have made it off the ground. Her encouragement, her energy, and the way she’s kept this momentum going in the background have been nothing short of incredible not that she realises or believes. That conversation reminded me why I started – and why I have to finish.

And every step of the way, just behind me in the campervan, is my amazing wife – my biggest fan, my rock, and so much more than words can ever fully express. She’s there at every checkpoint, cheering me on, keeping me grounded, and picking me up emotionally when the miles get heavy. This journey may look like a solo effort from the outside, but it’s very much a team effort – and she’s the heart of it all. Her quiet strength, her unwavering love, and her belief in me are the reason I keep moving forward.

A massive shoutout has to go to the Tesco staff who helped mark both ends of this incredible first day. The team at Tesco Edinburgh were absolutely lovely – warm, supportive, and genuinely uplifting. Their kind words and send-off helped ease the nerves and started the day on the perfect note. And when I reached Dalkeith Hardengreen, the welcome I received was incredible. The staff there greeted me with open arms and made me feel like I’d just accomplished something huge – which, in truth, I had. Their kindness and enthusiasm helped me realise just how far I’d already come.

Today’s walk to Dalkeith took just 5 hours and 26 minutes – much quicker than I expected. Maybe the nerves got the better of me and I pushed a bit too hard (I’m sure I’ll feel that tomorrow), but the adrenaline carried me.

The route itself was absolutely stunning – and brutal in places. At the start, there were hills. In the middle? More hills. And near the end, just when I thought I’d earned a bit of flat ground… yep, more hills. But what a landscape. Highland cows dotted the route, watching with curiosity as I passed by, and the views were simply incredible – vast open stretches, rolling green, and a sky that seemed to stretch forever. It was the kind of scenery that lifts your spirits, even when your legs are screaming.

And what greeted me at the finish made it all worth it. As I arrived, a piper played me in and a group of people – strangers, yet somehow not – were waiting to welcome me with smiles, cheers, and a hot cuppa tea. I felt genuinely overwhelmed by the support. These people didn’t know me, but they showed up with open arms and warm hearts. That kind of kindness hits you in the chest.

In terms of battle damage for Day One – the shoulder muscles are definitely feeling the strain. Very sore, especially from the medicine ball. I’ve also picked up a small blister on the heel of my right foot and another on the top of my left. Thankfully, both are manageable with Compeed blister plasters – uncomfortable, but nothing that’ll stop me pushing on.

What really kept me going today, though, were the messages. The emotional words of encouragement I’ve received from friends, family, and co-workers have been nothing short of overwhelming. Some made me laugh, some brought tears to my eyes – but all of them reminded me exactly why I’m doing this.

I also want to say a huge thank you to the RAFAC community. The kind messages and incredible support from squadrons and CFAVs up and down the country have meant the world to me. It’s a powerful reminder of the bond we share and the strength of this amazing organisation – and I carry that with me every step of the way.

By the end of the day, my feet were sore, my shoulders heavy, and the medicine ball had started to feel more like a stubborn companion than a burden. But my spirit? Undented. This is just the beginning – and I’m ready for whatever the road throws at me.

Bring on tomorrow.

1 week to go!

Ready to step off!

One man and his med ball 1 week away!

After months of planning, training, prepping kit, and mentally gearing up, the time has finally come – I’m ready to begin my 500-mile walk from Edinburgh to Welwyn Garden City, carrying a medicine ball the entire way.

This challenge isn’t just about endurance. It’s about pushing limits, raising awareness, and showing support for a cause incredibly close to my heart: Combat Stress, the UK’s leading charity for veterans’ mental health. Every blister, every uphill climb, and every mile walked represents a step forward for those battling their own silent struggles long after the uniform comes off.

Right now, I feel a mix of emotions. There’s excitement to finally get moving, nervous about what’s ahead, and a deep sense of purpose. I’ve put everything into preparing for this, physically and mentally, and I’m proud to say: I’m ready.

From Scotland’s rugged roads to England’s rolling countryside, I’ll be sharing updates along the way – the highs, the lows, and the people I meet. If you see me on the road, give a wave or a honk! And if you haven’t already, please consider donating – every pound raised makes a difference.

Let’s do this. One mile at a time.

#500MilesForCombatStress

#EveryStepCounts

#VeteransMentalHealth

HERE WE GO!

A Charity Walk for a Great Cause: Edinburgh to Tesco Headquarters, Welwyn Garden City

By Chris McDowell

The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step—and for me, that step happens on 11th June 2025, when I’ll set off on a walk from Edinburgh Tesco Extra to Tesco Headquarters in Welwyn Garden City. That’s 475 miles on foot, over 15 days, with one important mission: to raise awareness and funds for Combat Stress, the UK’s leading charity supporting veterans' mental health.

Why I’m Walking — and Why I’m Carrying a Medicine Ball

This isn’t just a long-distance walk. It’s a walk with purpose. For every step of the way, I’ll be carrying a medicine ball—a physical reminder of the invisible weight that so many veterans carry each and every day as they live with PTSD, anxiety, depression and other mental health challenges.

The medicine ball represents the burden that’s not always seen, but always felt. And just as I’ll carry it mile after mile, veterans carry those struggles long after their service has ended. That’s why this walk is for them—and why Combat Stress means so much to me.

The Journey Ahead

I’ll begin in Edinburgh, setting out from the Tesco Extra store. I work in the Maintenance team at Tesco so I want to stop at several stores on the way and chat to colleagues and veterans about their own mental health. From Edinburgh, it’s 475 miles through cities, towns, countryside and whatever the British weather decides to throw my way. There’ll be good days and tough ones—sore legs, dodgy weather, moments of exhaustion—but the goal will always be clear.

Along the way, I’m hoping to meet supporters, raise awareness in every community I pass through, and maybe even be joined by a few friendly faces for a stretch or two. If you see me and my medicine ball walking past, please say hello—or give me a honk if you’re driving!

Why Combat Stress?

Combat Stress has been there for veterans since 1919, providing specialist support to those dealing with the mental toll of their service. From PTSD to anxiety and depression, the charity offers expert clinical help, therapy, and practical advice to help veterans reclaim their lives.

Mental health struggles don’t always leave visible scars—and too often, they’re overlooked or misunderstood. Through this walk, I want to shine a light on the importance of mental health support for those who’ve served. Every pound raised and every conversation started will help Combat Stress continue their incredible work.

The Finish Line: Tesco HQ, Welwyn Garden City

All being well (and with a few blisters, no doubt), I’ll arrive at Tesco’s Welwyn Garden City Headquarters on 25th June, right in time for our Armed Forces Day celebrations. It’ll mark the end of the physical journey, but not the end of the mission. Raising awareness and support for veterans’ mental health is something I’ll continue to champion

I am raising vital funds for life-changing mental health treatment for veterans.

Combat Stress is the UK's leading charity for veterans' mental health. For over a century, they've helped former servicemen and women deal with issues like trauma, anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. Today, they provide support to veterans from every service and every conflict.

I’m taking on vital steps towards ensuring veterans can get the support they need.

Thank you so much for your support.