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1900

Russell and Kei just keep walking

Russell and Kei just keep walking

Author: Kasia Yoko
Date: 2013-05-09
Cancer survivor Russell Kearney and his dog Kei have been on the road for two months and have done over 1000 km together. For Russell it is a journey of discovery but for Kei it was one of those things, being at the right place at the right time. When he was just three weeks old Russell picked him up from a shelter and decided to take him along on his new adventure.

And what an adventure it is! In the next twelve months Russell intends to walk around the perimeter of South Africa, over 7000km, to gather material for a book he intends to self publish on his return. You may ask why is he doing it? Well I have also posed that question and received a rather frank response.

The walk will form part of his autobiography, Keep Walking Inspired by Faith, Hope and Love. Kearney, who had skin cancer, has done similar walks in the past, but was met with many delays. The book will highlight his travels and he aims to self-publish about 20000 copies.

Russell and Kei, who is a cross between a pit bull and a ridgeback, rely on the generosity of the public, they have to stay together and their budget is very tight. Even though it was not easy at times, they have managed to always find somewhere to lay their heads and Russell is very grateful for all the help they have received from complete strangers. When I spoke with Russell he was going to spend the night in the beautiful setting of the Rose Cottage at the Paws for Thought, animal sanctuary in Umhlali.

"This journey has been a real challenge involving some serious planning." Admits Russell, "I have been tested continuously, daily I am confronted physically, psychologically and spiritually but I have put my faith in God."

If you can help, contact Russell at 071 835 5361 or [email protected]. He is heading north to Kosi Bay and on around South Africa, literally.