Mark is walking the West Highland Way to raise money for charity. Here, we find out more about what made him take this journey.
Making changes
Mark wanted to take a step towards feeling calmer and having more peaceful moments. So, he made two big decisions in his life: to get a dog and to give up alcohol. He now has two dogs, Jasper and Shep, and they are Mark’s trusted companions.
Jasper and Shep have been really important in Mark’s recovery journey. They give him company and they are great at enjoying the simple things in life. Mark feels that the dogs are aware of his mood and respond in positive ways. They know what is needed to be well.
Being in nature
Mark walks every day around the local hills and parks. He does this in all weather and all seasons. Walking in beautiful, quiet places makes a positive difference to Mark. When he is in nature, he leaves his past behind him. The rhythm of walking, physical exercise and time
to himself make Mark feel soothed and calm.
Last year, Mark decided he wanted to take his walking to another level. He wanted to do a long walk, taking several days and include some wild camping. Walking in the most spectacular scenery really appealed to him.
A new journey
Mark decided he would walk the West Highland Way in Spring 2026. This walking trail is 96 miles long and goes from Milngavie to Fort William. On the way are key landmarks like Loch Lomond and Glencoe.
Mark wanted to challenge himself. This big walk will give him a physical challenge. But he also sees it as a chance to work through some of his experiences. Mark will have Jasper and Shep for company, and he knows that if the walk gets challenging, his dogs will be with him by his side.
Mark is looking forward to sitting on the end point bench in Fort William and feeling a real sense of achievement, acceptance and pride.
Raising awareness
Walking the West Highland Way is an important personal journey for Mark. It is part of his own recovery. But he also sees it as a chance to give back. Mark wants to use the walk to raise awareness about the PDSA. The PDSA looks after animals and supports people to take care of their pets too. By supporting the PDSA, Mark can help animals to have a better life.
