Cathal Kelly's challenge was to raise money for Mayo Parkinson's Association and Children's Health Foundation Crumlin

Mayo man concludes 2,200km walk to Italy for charity

by · RTE.ie

A 46-year-old Mayo man has completed an epic 2,200km walk across mainland Europe to Rome.

Cathal Kelly, who is from Swinford, finished his walk at St Peter's Square in Vatican City yesterday morning.

He started walking in early June, and trekked 104 days across northern France, Switzerland, and Italy.

He finished off with a 19km walk from the outskirts of Rome to the Vatican City, having started in Canterbury, England, over four months ago.

Mr Kelly's challenge was to raise money for Mayo Parkinson's Association and Children's Health Foundation Crumlin.

There were ups and downs for Mr Kelly along the route; lonely days through the French countryside, vending machine pizzas and rainy treks, but they have been balanced by people from home joining him for sections of his walk.

"I walked along the Via Francigena pilgrim's path," he said.

"This trip was completely self-funded, and all monies donated will be divided amongst two Irish charities very close to my heart: Children’s Health Foundation Crumlin and Mayo Parkinson’s Association.

"Crumlin Children’s Hospital will always hold a special and emotional place in my life and that of my family. My twin sister Sarah died in Crumlin hospital on 9 July 1978 aged five months.

"Sarah was predeceased by our eldest sister, Alice, who died the previous year on 20 July 1977, also in Crumlin aged four years," Mr Kelly added.

Cathal Kelly completed his challenge in memory of two of his sisters

"So far, I have raised over €40,000 which is incredible. It has been an epic journey and the enormity of it has only just sunk in.

"At the beginning it was difficult because I felt a bit isolated but as the walk continued, I got really into it.

"My feet are really hurting. I haven't shaved since I started out on the walk, so I'm looking forward to a clean-up and a nice cup of warm tea beside the fire after all this."

Mr Kelly stayed in local guesthouses and hostels along the route, while keeping followers updated on his Instagram page @kellyswalk2rome.

"My sister and two friends joined me yesterday for the final leg. My two friends walked the final 20k or so with me which was a fantastic way to complete the walk," he said.