60 Mile Hike Across Gran Canaria
This July, a father-and-son duo from South Wales are taking on an epic Challenge 160 to support us, as they swap their day jobs for hiking boots to walk 60 miles across Gran Canaria in just 7 days.
Andrew Walsh, Co-Founder and Director of Operations at domiciliary care provider Relax Care, and his son Bailey Walsh, an NHS Mental Health Support Worker, will take on the physically and emotionally demanding trek from 14th to 21st July. The pair will sleep out each night with no tents or overhead cover — relying only on minimalist bivvy sacks in what’s known as ‘cowboy camping’.
“We wanted this to be a real challenge — not just a walk in the sun,” Andrew explains. “Every step is personal. Sight Life has been a lifeline to my mum, Pam, and continues to support several of the clients we care for at Relax Care. This is our way of saying thank you — not just in words, but in action.”
Bailey, who works on the frontline of NHS mental health services, says the walk reflects the kind of support that too often goes unseen:
“I see every day how vital the right support is — whether it’s for someone’s mental health or navigating life with sight loss. We wanted to push ourselves outside of our comfort zone to raise awareness of what it can feel like to face uncertainty and vulnerability. Sleeping under the stars without a roof over your head brings that home.”
The duo will cover rugged terrain and mountain routes during the 7-day challenge, relying on their own supplies and their determination to reach the finish line. Here at Sight Life, we’re really grateful that all money raised will support us to continue our vital work across South Wales.
Supporters can follow their journey and donate via their JustGiving page:
👉 justgiving.com/page/60miles-for-sightlife
“We’re asking anyone who can spare a few pounds — whether you work in care, the NHS, or just believe in supporting community services — to walk this path with us in spirit,” Andrew says. “Together, we can help Sight Life continue to change lives.”
