It all comes down to this - In the name of Thiago - Day 258

 

Ladies and gentleman, we are here. I've been through a lifetime's worth of utter shit this year but through it all I've kept writing and kept walking. One foot after another, pretty much eat, sleep, rave, repeat. I am ready. I am anxious because, well, it's a big deal. But the moment that I've spent much of the year working towards is finally upon me.

I am feeling an incredible range of emotions. I've stressed, I've cried, I've laughed - the full gamut as they say. I knocked off work at 12.30 today and I won't be going back until Monday 19 October. Between now and then I will walk 300 miles, meet old friends, walk with people I've never even met and of course meet some absolute fucking nutcases - not all of them friends of mine.


Here's the itinerary, which you'll have to excuse being the wrong way round. After the four and a half hour drive down, I haven't got the energy to fart around with it. I'm at my brother's new gaff in the Ratton part of Eastbourne, the little bastard's done quite well for himself - proving that getting in with someone wealthier and with better work prospects than you always pays off. Just kidding Livi, you know he's in it for the long haul or at least until he bumps you off. Check the life insurance policy!

I've had loads of messages of goodwill today, it's been quite overwhelming. I've tried to respond to as many as possible but I know I'll have missed a few. So if you've sent me something, please just know that I am very thankful for your support.


Look at them, two fine figures of men. Well one fine figure of a man and my little bro. It's a seriously nice gaff where my younger more successful brother Judd lives and he's already revelling in the disquiet his white van - admittedly parked on his own driveway - may cause to some of his well-heeled neighbours. That's something my brother and I most definitely share, enjoying the role of the underdog.


So everyone's going to be decked out in these bad boys tomorrow - a fabulous Brazilian yellow team effort. We'll all look fabulous. The wait is finally over and tomorrow we shall walk 17 miles along the South Downs Way. Bring it on. 

For the 258th and the last time before the 'In the name of Thiago' memorial walk starts tomorrow, I am asking you if you can make a donation to the cause. It's been tremendous team effort and it doesn't stop here. This really is just the beginning. See you tomorrow folks!

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