On October 3, 88-year-old Brad Hathaway of Mattapoisett, Massachusetts completed his 32-year 24,901-mile walk, equating to the distance around the Earth’s equator. Not only has Hathaway experienced the physical health benefits of walking, but he has also used his journey to raise money for the Mattapoisett Land Trust, an organization he helped found in the 1970s.
24,901 Miles Around the World
The nearly 25,000-mile journey began in 1988 when Hathaway learned that he was at risk for both heart disease and diabetes. Hathaway’s physician suggested that he take up walking to strengthen his heart and improve his overall health. That very day, Hathaway began walking a minimum of three miles every day, weather permitting.
Walking has slowly become more difficult over the last three decades, Hathaway says. While he used to walk up to 10 miles per day with only his walking cane for support, he now walks with the help of a walker. Hathaway has been determined from the start, and not even his Parkinson’s diagnosis in December of 2019 or a global pandemic could slow him down. Hathaway also picks up trash or finds treasures along the route, sometimes, and he’s made almost $7,000 from items laying on or near his trails.
Hathaway began his 24,901st mile on October 3 at 10 a.m. EDT, surrounded by friends, family, and Mattapoisett Land Trust supporters who made sure to maintain proper social distancing efforts while cheering Hathaway on. While many cheered from the roadside, others walked alongside Hathaway in solidarity.
The Mattapoisett Land Trust
The Mattapoisett Land Trust (MLT) was founded by 11 Mattapoisett citizens in 1974, including Hathaway. They had become concerned about humanity’s effect on the environment and formed the non-profit to acquire and preserve wildlife areas in the Mattapoisett area, educate public citizens about using natural resources responsibly, and working with other similarly oriented organizations. The organization is currently in possession of over 650 total acres. MLT operates solely through volunteer efforts and donations.
Since August of 2020, Hathaway has used his walk to fundraise for the MLT, and the organization hosted the celebration of his final mile on October 3. All funds raised through the “A Walk Around the World for Mattapoisett Land” GoFundMe fundraiser will be donated to the MLT for the acquisition and upkeep of natural lands.
For both agents and clients, walking daily can help preserve and enhance one’s physical and mental health. In some cases, like that of Hathaway, walking may even allow you to provide support for the environment. Congratulations, Mr. Hathaway, on your trip around the globe! For more information about Brad’s walk, visit the MLT website.
Agents
We hope this information on Brad Hathaway walking 24,901 miles to raise money for the Mattapoisett Land Trust inspires you to get moving!
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Originally from the snow-capped Rockies, Macee moved to Texas in 2016 to pursue an undergraduate degree in Strategic Communication. She currently serves as a writer and editor for Empower Brokerage, as well as the marketing manager for Preferred Senior Advisors. Macee is also working on her Master’s degree in management, and hopes to inspire others with her passion for telling stories through varied digital and print marketing efforts.
