Norwich resident Tristan Peddie will be walking 26 miles along Marriott’s way to raise funds for St Martins. Tristan, 36, plans to set off on his marathon walk from Norwich to Aylsham before sunrise, with his St Martins support worker Lloyd joining him along the way.
Tristan accesses support from the reablement team at St Martins paid for by his council-funded personal budget for social care, but after paying for these services and necessities he finds that there is no money left for fun. Tristan said, “There are a lot of people in my situation. Once I’ve paid for my care there is nothing left at the end of the month. I can barely afford food.”
The funds raised by his marathon walk will help people like Tristan to afford leisure activities such as swimming, bowling or a cinema trip with their support worker.
Living with ADHD and Asperger’s, Tristan also wants to inspire people with his condition to believe in their abilities. Famous free-climber Alex Honnold has been Tristan’s biggest sporting role model, and their shared experience of living with Asperger’s has further motivated Tristan towards his goal.
Walking became one of Tristan’s favourite pastimes during lockdown because it was one of the only free, accessible activities to do with his support worker and he loves being able to get out and experience nature.
He said, “It’s all for a good cause. I’ve had nothing but encouragement for this challenge. With the help of St Martins I have come so far. If I can do something I enjoy and raise money at the same time it’s a win-win.”
“When I get an idea in my head there’s no stopping me.”
Tristan has purchased supplies, planned his route and asked his friends and family to sponsor him, with over £100 already pledged. He has set up a Just Giving page for people to donate online https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/tristan
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