So I've had a bit of a wild idea floating around in the old noggin for a while about doing a big long solo unsupported run and thought that the easiest way to be self supported would be using a wheelbarrow which would double as a great ice breaker. When some friends told me about a drive in Scotland called the North Coast 500 I instantly pictured myself running around like a larrikin listening to the Proclaimers 'I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)' and thought this sounded like the perfect adventure. So thus here we are. The plan is to run/walk the North Coast 500 mile around Scotland, starting in June and stopping in at all the pubs/nursing homes I can find along the journey to create some connections, have some conversations and share a few laughs (and pints). The aim is to average a marathon a day meaning it should take around 3 weeks and looking at doing something a little silly and different on each day to add to the fun. The first day will be run listening to nothing but the Proclaimers 500 miles on repeat, there'll be a day done in thongs, a day in a kilt, a day on nothing but deep fried Mars bars as examples. Initially the thought was for it purely to be a FUNraiser but after a chat with some mates they suggested that I should fundraise for a cause relating to the journey which is all about trying to get people to live more truly connected lives and spend more quality time with those nearest and dearest- particularly the elderly who unfortunately as a western society we deeply neglect. I often see in my job how spending an extra 10 minutes having a yarn to someone can really brighten their day and how doing the small things can really make big differences. I strongly believe there are many worthy causes to donate money and time to but I'm passionate about this as I believe that our elders have so much wisdom and younger people spending more time with elderly leads to a mutually beneficial outcome for everyone. I believe that more connected and happier communities can lead to great flow on effects of causing bigger changes on a mass level and who better to learn from then people who have seen it all. As so many Indigenoues cultures around the world (particularly the thriving culture here in Australia) demonstrate deep respect for elders in the community and are the ones people seek wisdom and guidance from. The great charity any funds raised will go towards is Friends for Good. They are a beacon of hope in a world where loneliness and social isolation are all too common. As a national not-for-profit organisation, their mission is clear: to combat the pervasive issue of loneliness by fostering connections among individuals and communities across the country. Any money raised will go towards two projects that Friends for Good are requiring more funding to implement: 1.Expanding the Reach of the Walk for Good Initiative: Friends for Good aims to broaden the impact of their Walk for Good program, a volunteer-led effort empowering individuals nationwide to initiate inclusive, accessible walks. By fostering social connection and promoting physical activity, this initiative aims to enhance well-being step by step. 2.Kick-off the Playful Bridges Program. Friends for Good would like to run a pilot program of Playful Bridges fostering intergenerational connections through playful fun. This initiative will provide opportunities for children and older adults to interact and bond in their local communities, enriching lives through shared experiences and mutual support. I strongly believe giving someone your time is one of the most precious things you can give. It would warm my heart if people put their phones down and got out and did some of the below- Call your grandparents Call your parents Call that old schoolmate you've been meaning to chat to Go spend some time volunteering for something you feel worthy about For those keen to donate then here are a few suggestions For: $50 I'll run a kilometre in thongs $250 you can choose an outfit for me to run in for the day $1000 to be pushed 5km in the wheelbarrow If you have any of your own weird and wonderful suggestions or challenges to add to the fun, then I'm all ears. To follow along with the journey then @scottishwheelbarrowadventures on instagram https://www.instagram.com/reel/C7BiZRCyYCo/?igsh=MWphcWZjbjdqeHdtYg==