The Annual Expedition usually takes place in the Autumn and lasts a
week. It will follow a national trail or walk from a base set in walking country - such as the Lake District.
The
group will be based in one or more self-catering houses or cottages or a Youth Hostel, and will use local transport services
to move to and from the start and finish of the daily walk. The walk each day will be 9-13 miles, depending on the steepness
of the terrain and the fitness of the group.
The walks are supported by a team of volunteer medical staff with experience of walking
and the treatment of diabetic patients. In addition, many of the group will be experienced walkers who can provide companionship
and advice to the newly diagnosed. The walks are a means for finding for yourself how you can improve control when
exercising.
The charge for the week is usually about £ 250. The expedition is supported by
a charitable trust.
Last year's expedition followed the first part of the Coast to Coast Walk made
famous by Alfred Wainwright from the start point at St. Bees on the Cumbrian Coast to Patterdale in the Lake District.
The expedition passed without incident (no injuries or serious hypos), and was much enjoyed by all participants - despite
a couple of days of very wet and windy weather. Scenery and walks were magnificent, and all members of the expedition
benefited immensely from the spirit of camaraderie and shared experience. All those with diabetes learned from each
other, and the medical experts on hand to lend support, how best to balance the demands of strenuous and prolonged exercise
with food and medication.
The 2011 Expedtion took place in September, successfully tackling the
middle section of the 190 mile Coast to Coast Walk. A report will be published on this website soon. The plan is to continue
the walk and complete it in 2012.
An application form
is published on this website.
