Turning 60 has a way of making you look at your life differently. For me, it brought a simple, stubborn thought: If not now, when?

So this year, I’m taking on a bucket list challenge that has lived quietly in the back of my mind for years — walking the length of the West Highland Way, wild‑camping along the route, carrying everything I need on my back, and giving myself the time and space to reconnect with the land that has called to me for as long as I can remember.

Although I’ve never lived in Scotland, my ancestry is Scottish, and I’ve always felt a quiet pull toward the Highlands — a feeling the Gaelic language captures in the word cianalas: a deep, aching homesickness for a place you’ve never truly known.

This journey is, in many ways, a return to something deep in my bones. A way of honoring the land my people came from, and finally setting foot on the paths that have whispered to me for years. As well as a journey of gratitude that these wild spaces still exist.

But I don’t want this walk to be just about me. I am grateful that opportunities to "rewild" still exist in the world. I want it to give something back to the places and people who protect Scotland’s landscapes and keep them accessible for all of us.

⭐ Who I’m Supporting

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs Countryside Trust

Scottish Charity No. SC043266

This small but mighty charity works to protect the landscapes, paths, habitats, and communities across the National Park.

They support conservation, access, biodiversity, and local wellbeing — the quiet, essential work that keeps these places alive and thriving.

Highland Council Outdoor Access Team

A public service team within Highland Council (not a registered charity)

This team maintains paths, signage, access rights, and the infrastructure that allows walkers, cyclists, and outdoor lovers to explore Scotland responsibly and safely. Their work often goes unseen, but without them, the trails we love simply wouldn’t function.

⭐ How Your Donation Helps

Your support will help:

maintain and improve footpaths

protect habitats and wildlife

support conservation projects

keep access open and safe for everyone

strengthen the communities along the route

Every pound makes a difference.

⭐ How Funds Will Be Split

All donations will be collected through this fundraiser and then split between:

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs Countryside Trust (SC043266)

Highland Council Outdoor Access Team

I will share updates and proof of donations at the end of the challenge.

⭐ Donation Ideas

If you’d like a fun way to choose an amount:

£6 — one pound for each decade

£30 — one pound for every 10 km

£60 — celebrating turning 60

£120 — two nights of wild camping

£300 — one pound for each kilometre of the full journey

£10 — one pound for each midge bite? Is 10 pounds a hopeful underestimate?

Or simply give whatever feels right.

⭐ Follow the Journey

I’ll post updates as I travel and set off.

Thank you for being part of this — for supporting the land, the paths, and the people who make adventures like this possible.

Here’s to turning 60 with muddy boots, a full heart, and a good cause.