Hi, my name is Richard, and this year I’m embarking on a journey that will change my life—and, I hope, the lives of many others.

in May 2026, I will begin walking the Camino de Santiago, a pilgrimage stretching 488 miles over 32 days across France and Spain. It’s a challenge that will test my body, mind, and spirit, but I’m walking every step with a purpose far greater than myself: to raise awareness and funds for men’s mental health and beagle welfare, two causes that mean the world to me.

Why Men’s Mental Health?

Too many men suffer in silence, feeling they have to be “strong” and hide their pain. This silence can lead to struggles with depression, anxiety, and tragically, suicide. I know this pain personally. I’ve faced dark moments myself and have seen friends and family silently battle their own inner demons—some who bravely reached out for help, and heartbreakingly, others who didn’t make it through.

It doesn’t have to be this way. That’s why part of the funds raised will go directly to Movember, an incredible charity dedicated to men’s health. Movember focuses on breaking the stigma, providing resources for mental health support, suicide prevention, prostate cancer, and testicular cancer. They are saving lives, and I want to walk every step of this journey in their honour.

Why Beagle Welfare?

Alongside my passion for mental health is a deep love for animals, especially beagles. Beagles are incredibly loving and loyal, yet sadly, many are abandoned, neglected, or used for cruel experiments.

I’ve seen firsthand the heartbreaking sight of a rescued beagle—eyes full of fear and confusion, yet still so willing to trust and love again. They deserve better. They deserve safety, care, and a chance to live the joyful, tail-wagging lives they were born to have.

That’s why the other half of the funds will go to Beagle Welfare, a wonderful charity dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming beagles in need. Your donations will help provide food, veterinary care, and safe homes for these beautiful souls.

Why the Camino de Santiago?

This walk isn’t just a fundraiser—it’s a pilgrimage of healing and hope.

The Camino de Santiago has been walked by countless people seeking purpose, peace, and transformation. Over 32 days and 488 miles, I’ll face exhaustion, blisters, and moments of doubt. But every step will remind me why I’m doing this—for the men who feel unheard and the beagles who can’t speak for themselves.

Whenever the journey feels too hard, I’ll remember that my pain is temporary, but the difference we can make together will last a lifetime.

How You Can Help

My goal is to, raise funds for:

Movember – supporting men’s mental health, suicide prevention, and overall well-being.

Beagle Welfare – rescuing, healing, and rehoming beagles in need.

Your donation, no matter the size, will directly contribute to saving lives—both human and canine.

If you can’t donate, you can still make a huge difference by sharing my campaign and spreading the word. Awareness is powerful, and together we can reach even more people.

This journey is deeply personal to me. With every mile I walk, I’ll carry the stories of those who’ve struggled in silence and the hope of a better life for every beagle waiting for love and safety.

Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for your support. Together, we can heal hearts and save tails, one step and one act of kindness at a time.

With gratitude,

Richard Parkus