Team Sams Walking to Fundraise for Samaritans of Wellington

For Ken, the old cliché of taking one step at a time has a special meaning and a strong motivation. Five years ago, Ken was struck down with Guillain–Barré syndrome, an autoimmune disease, that, due to an immune response to foreign antigens (such as infectious agents), mistargets at host nerve tissues instead – essentially attacking their own body. There are a whole range of effects, some very serious. Ken ended up being left completely paralysed for 24 hours. He lost 20 kilograms in two weeks and faced a long road to recovery. But while in rehab, he was challenged to learn to walk again – a challenge he took to heart.

So walk again he did, building up over the years to completing half-marathons. He would often be finishing the event as the organizers were packing up, but for Ken it was not about speed, it was the satisfaction of being able to complete the event, to continue the journey of recovery. But of course on any journey, there are sometimes obstacles that come along.

Six months ago Ken underwent quadruple heart bypass surgery, which, needless to say, put a bit of a dent in his training. But he is back on the recovery road, aiming to complete the 10k walk at the Armstrong Motor Group Wellington Marathon on Sunday June 23. But this time it’s not only for his own satisfaction and recovery – Ken has a team of 12 along with him, and their aim is to raise funds for Samaritans of Wellington, a confidential, non-judgmental listening service that has been a part of the community for nearly 50 years.

Even after undergoing major heart surgery, Ken has been busy working in the community since retiring two and a half years ago. He works for Age Concern New Zealand as an advocate for the elderly, and is a trustee of the Guillain Barré Syndrome Support Group Trust.

Joining Samaritans 18 months ago enabled him to use his own experiences, being truly able to offer empathy and understanding to those suffering pain and depression. Becoming a Samaritan (or “Sams” as they are known) allowed Ken to give back to the broader community. “By nature I am quiet, but I enjoy helping those less fortunate or in difficult circumstances”, says Ken. And he has also enjoyed the collegiality of fellow Sams, who he describes as “an incredible bunch of people.”  

“When we heard that Ken was contemplating doing a half marathon we were encouraged to support him” said Samaritans of Wellington Board Chair Teenah.  “Team Sams was formed. We are a group of Samaritans and supporters that will be undertaking the 10K walk with Ken. We are using just our first names, because for many anonymity is an important part of being a volunteer listener. It’s not about the Sam, it’s the person at the other end that’s important, ” says Teenah .

For Ken it has been a journey. A journey from paralysis to being able to walk along our fabulous waterfront with a group of friends, colleagues and supporters. One step at a time. You can sponsor Team Sams, and in turn support Samaritans, by donating at http://www.givealittle.co.nz/cause/teamsams.

ENDS

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