Day 44: Climbing Hills and Emotional Mountains
Today was Day 44 — and honestly, I'm struggling to find words that fit. Maybe because I never really imagined getting this far... or maybe because I never stopped to imagine it at all.
The day kicked off bright and early with a lovely chat with Michael Jakobs on BBC Radio Cornwall (a rare treat talking to someone not deep in their own private clique). Then it was off to wheel from Newquay to Penzance — and straight into an uphill that made Everest look like a casual Sunday stroll. Seriously, this hill just. kept. going.
Jason from Rehasense paid a visit, which was brilliant. He also delivered the kind of earth-shattering news that makes you want to scream into a void: that mysterious spring in the Track Wheel kit? Turns out if I’d installed it, it would’ve made cambered roads about 10x easier. Oh well — hindsight’s a ruthless teacher.
Onwards and upwards — literally. I managed to clock just over 15 km/h on a flat stretch, which for me might as well be Formula One speed. A personal victory tucked between the endless hills and emotional potholes.
The team dynamics? Let’s call it... educational. Apparently, I’m the "plonker at the front," pushing the wheels while the rest of the gang perfects the ancient art of talking around me, over me, but never to me. Good times. It’s a bit like being the "star of a show" no one actually wants to attend. Apt really as I would be told thise very words every time I entered my disabled room! "I see, the star of the show gets the biggest room!" Actually its because I have a disabled room which are always bigger! Im happy to swap - disability and all!!
And the bacon sandwich distribution tomorrow morning? Yeah, not holding my breath on getting on that VIP list either.
Midday slump brought some real feelings. Truth is, it’s hard being the one putting in every ounce of energy while being treated like a disposable extra. Turns out, basic human needs — like feeling included — didn’t make the logistics list.
Thankfully, Phil arrived later and saved the emotional day. A genuinely kind soul who actually gets it — that support off the road matters just as much as on it. Some photos were snapped (yes, I probably looked like a half-dead plonker, but hey, memories!), and it was a massive relief to speak to someone who sees me as more than background noise.
The day finished with a real highlight: Truro Rugby Club. Hundreds of people, cheering, welcoming, clapping. Actual warmth. Actual acknowledgment. Honestly, it was overwhelming in the best way — a reminder that kindness still exists outside of team cliques and cold car parks.
The Rugby Club even raised £130 for the cause — absolute legends.
Meanwhile, tomorrow looms: the final day. Rain forecast all morning because, of course. But hey, at least Phil’s trying to swing a hotel room near the finish line so I can freshen up and cross that line with a little dignity left intact.
And when that happens — when I cross that finish line — I'll know exactly who stood with me, and who just stood... chatting amongst themselves.
Bring on Day 45.
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- Wheelchair
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- Crps
- Fibromyalgia
- Rugby
Lexi Chambers