3rd of March 2010. Hi, for Rosie's
new challenge, to run 26 marathons in 26 days, I have set up a new
website and a new blog. the main site is
www.rosies26marathonsin26days.co.uk
And I have also created a blog site for up-to-the-minute news and
comment which can be found here
blog.rosies26marathonsin26days.co.uk
31st of January2010. Hi
everyone, he is a great write-up in the Tenby Observer by
Ceris Hewlings, talking to Rosie about
her upcoming challenge to run 26 marathons in 26 days. To raise
money for Ty Hafan,
family hospice in Cardiff, and Helen House hospice in Oxford.
These are great charities that Rosie feels very passionately about.
Here is the full article, I have edited the formatting slightly.
All the best James.
Rosie prepares to step out on new marathon challenge.
Friday, 29 January
2010 (Tenby Observer) by Ceris Hewlings
link
Rosie Swale Pope is undertaking 26
marathons in 26 days for charity. She is also launching the new Wales
Marathon in Tenby organised by Matthew Evans (seen left) and Scott
Powell, of Activity Wales. Pic. Gareth Davies Photography.
Twenty-six marathons in 26 days! To
most people that’s unthinkable.
But not for Tenby’s round-the-world adventurer Rosie Swale Pope MBE, who
will be stepping out on the challenge in April in aid of children’s
hospices. And her first marathon on her epic 681.2-mile journey will be
in her very own home town as she launches Tenby’s new Wales Marathon.
Rosie is teaming up with Matthew Evans, chief executive of Activity
Wales, and company director Scott Powell to promote the exciting
three-day gruelling event which is being hosted by Tenby in September.
Rosie, 63, will run the 26.2-mile course on Easter Monday, April 5,
pulling her famous cart Icebird, which accompanied her for a large part
of her 21,000-mile global trek.
The Wales Marathon will be Pembrokeshire’s first ever measured marathon
and will be held on Sunday, September 26, as part of the Long Course
Weekend. The whole event will include the 1,500 and 3,000-metre Wales
Swim on Friday, September 24, 40, 80 or 120-mile Wales Sportif bike
rides on the Saturday, followed by the full marathon and a half marathon
which will start and finish in Tenby on the Sunday.
The event is being organised by Matthew, Scott and Activity Wales.
Both are well-known athletes, with Matthew having completed 10 marathons
in 10 days and the Ironman Austria last year, while Scott already owns
and runs many national award-winning events.
Although the event is still in its planning stages, with the marathon
course - which will see runners complete loops heading out from Tenby
towards Manorbier and back along The Ridgeway to Penally and Tenby -
officially being measured in March, they are hoping to get as much
community support as possible.
“It is unique,” said Scott. “There is no race like it that sees these
sports come together over one weekend.
“We aim to get all the communities around Tenby involved and make the
event a real carnival atmosphere, with a prize up for grabs for the best
community support.” Participants will be able to raise funds for their
own charities, but there will be an overall charity that the event will
support. “To have Rosie running the route is quite a treat,” added
Matthew. “Tenby is hosting this event, which is fantastic for both the
town and Pembrokeshire.”
Participants can enter as many of the races as they want, with finishers
receiving medals which will, if all three are completed, form a jigsaw
to create the unique Long Course Weekend medal. Rosie’s other 25
marathons will all be in Wales and England.
Her friend and supporter, Geoff Hall, is currently working out her
schedule, but other runs are likely to include Bristol, Bath, Hereford
and Gloucester. “It is just a little challenge, but is very important to
me,” she said. “It will be very hard, but I have been partly inspired by
Matthew, who did 10 marathons in 10 days, which is unbelievably
gruelling, and Eddie Izzard, who did a huge amount of marathons, one of
which I ran with him,” she continued. “I know I will be very slow and it
will be harder because I am pulling Icebird. I am not superwoman; I am
just an ordinary runner, but it is wonderful to be doing my first
marathon here in Tenby and I will just go on from there.”
The marathons, Rosie says, are her personal thank you to all the people
who have always been there for her through thick and thin, and will also
be in aid of two very special hospices. Rosie continued: “There
are many causes that are forever part of my life.
I felt the need to do something for the children of Britain during these
marathons, and intend to raise funds and awareness for Ty Hafan, the
family hospice in Cardiff, and Helen House in Oxford, the world’s first
children’s hospice, and Douglas House, also in Oxford, the first for
young people. They are remarkable, and I am so proud to run for them.
“I was very moved when I visited Ty Hafan recently and hope that I can
raise £3,000 for each, so every penny counts.” Rosie is now busy
training, for which she has received advice from her friend Ann Rowell
and Runners World.
Anyone who would like to sponsor
Tŷ Hafan hospices,
the charity Rosie is running the 26 marathons in aid of can do so by can do so by clicking
this link or this logo
Sponsor forms can also be found at Coastal Cottages’ Tenby office, Kate
Blair Hairdressers, Webb Computers and Weybourne Guest House.
“I am so grateful to everyone who has agreed to have sponsor forms and
the those who have sponsored me already,” said Rosie. Details
about the Long Course Weekend can be found at
www.longcourseweekend.com
and www.thewalesmarathon.com.
Entries open on February 7.
22nd of January 2010. Hi everyone,
it has been a very exciting time for Rosie, she has been very busy
giving talks about her round the world run. as well as planning her next
challenge. Rosie is planning to run 26 marathons in 26 days starting on
the 5th of April 2010 to raise money for various charities. More details
to follow about this soon.
Rosie is giving a talk on Thursday the 11th of February at 7pm, at The
Lady Margaret School Hall, Parsons Green, London, SW6 4UN. Tickets
£10/£5 for under 18s - tickets for sale on the door. This School is
particularly close to Rosie's heart and she would love it if you could
come along, it should be a great evening. Regards James.
www.theoliviercentreladymargaretschool.org
7th of January 2010.
Hi I hope everyone is keeping well and has had a pleasant Christmas
and New Year. Rosie sends her regards, wishing everyone a wonderful
New Year. Rosie is having bit of a flashback to her experience of
running through Siberia. She's actually running with her cart
'Iceberg' from Ireland to Wales.
Rosie was recently was in
Ireland, raising awareness of the cancer charities she is
supporting, and giving some talks about her world run. She had left
her cart ' Iceberg' in Ireland, and now she is in the process of
running back to Wales with it.
The weather has been
absolutely horrendous and she is making slow but steady progress.
She is 15 miles from Rosslare, and has just informed me that she had
moved onto the two hot water bottle method of keeping warm and
everything is fine. She wanted me to thank all the well-wishers and
kind people she has met whilst in Ireland. Regards James
14th of September 2009.
Hi, Rosie is just about to embark this Wednesday the 16th of
September, on a
236
mile run up
Ireland, to highlight
the importance of cancer awareness. Here are the details of
her schedule and route. Good luck mum, all the best James.
JUST A LITTLE RUN IN IRELAND
By Rosie Swale Pope
IN
THANKSGIVING FOR IRELAND’S BEAUTY AND KIND SPIRIT, AND TO RAISE
CANCER AWARENESS
I
would especially like to thank all the amazing people who have
written to me. It has been the most wonderful experience to read
that many went for cancer checks because of reading my book or
through learning about the world run. It has overwhelmed me and has
totally inspired the run in Ireland. It is really a little run, as
I now have to work hard at my talks and lectures, and they take a
lot of preparation and time – but if the following small expedition
helps anyone, or raises a smile - that will be just great.
My plan
is to run 236 miles from Rosslare to the Giant’s Causeway pulling my
cart Icebird. The start will be 16th September, and the
finish is on 2nd October.
Schedule and Route:
02.45 am 16 September 2009 Icebird and Rosie board
Irish Ferries from Pembroke Dock to Rosslare Harbour, generously
sponsored by Irish Ferries Ltd.
8.00am 16 September SET OFF FROM ROSSLARE – RUN TO
DUBLIN. 5 days. Distance 89 miles
11am 21 September Live on Tom Dunne Show, press
interviews.. Enjoy Dublin. Lap of honour for Icebird through Dublin!!!
8am 23r September – RUN TO BELFAST. Distance
102 miles. 6/7 days
29 September ARRIVE BELFAST. BBC Radio
Ulster/press/TV
30 September Race TO GIANT’S CAUSEWAY
2ND OCTOBER ARRIVE AT THE GIANT’S CAUSEWAY
-2ND October is my birthday and the anniversary of the date
I set off running around the world in 2003; I have never set eyes on
the Giant’s Causeway before. This will be a very special day - the
GRAND FINALE!!!!
From there, I have to go back to the UK for work, but
I will be in Ireland in November for lectures in Limerick and Cork,
places very dear to me indeed. I had to choose the shorter direct route
up Ireland as I have only the three weeks in September in which to
complete my current run, but I may leave Icebird in Ireland to take to
Limerick in November on my return.
I HOPE MY FAMILY AND FRIENDS CAN COME OUT TO SEE
ME ON THE ROAD ALONG THE WAY..It will be fantastic The Ireland Run will
be a dream achieved. This is something I have longed to do ever since I
was a child in Co Limerick. Life took the bit between its teeth like a
runaway pony, and all last year I was writing the book and unable to go
anywhere – but now I’m off to beautiful Ireland again. I just can’t
wait.
Best wishes,
Rosie
Website:
www.rosiearoundtheworld.co.uk
Email:
rosieswalepope@yahoo.co.uk
26th of August 2009. Hi
everyone, I've just been forwarded this wonderful and moving
e-mail from Rosie that was sent to her by Dr Robert Rigley, I felt I had
to put up on the website. All the best James.
24/08/2009
Dear Mrs Swale Pope,
I recently read your book and loved every minute of it. It’s hard to
believe that your adventure started aged 57! I’m motivated by your
enthusiasm and determination. You’re book has led me to think about my
own goals in life.
I’m writing to let you know about how I came to buy your book.. I’m a
junior doctor working in the urology department at Derriford Hospital,
Plymouth, Devon. I recently met a man in the prostate clinic who had
been diagnosed aged 50 with prostate cancer. I was very pleased to be
able to tell him that the cancer had been found at the earliest possible
stage and his prognosis is very good.
The letter from his GP said that with no symptoms whatsoever this man
had attended the surgery and requested a screening for prostate cancer.
The GP was more than happy to arrange this and accordingly examined the
prostate gland and then sent a blood sample for PSA (a sign of prostate
cancer in the blood). The PSA level was moderately raised and the man
was referred to my department.
By the time I saw him he had already
had an ultrasound scan of his prostate gland a biopsy taken. I informed
him that his request for screening may have saved his life as he can now
have curative surgery/radiotherapy. Intrigued as to why a healthy young
man would randomly request prostate screening I asked him why and he
told me about your book and your journey. I immediately bought your book
from Amazon and very much enjoyed it. I have now passed the book onto my
soon to be father-in-law and I’m sure he will enjoy it too. I hope it
encourages him to ask his GP for prostate screening.
The problem with prostate screening is that PSA (prostate specific
antigen) is not specific to prostate cancer – that means that it can be
high in a number of different conditions and therefore gives false
negative results. That is why it is not routinely offered to all men.
However, I have been doing some reading and it is felt that if the PSA
is raised above a certain level it is an indication for a biopsy.
However a prostate biopsy is very painful, undignified, timely and
expensive. Another big problem is that prostate cancer is very common
(80% of those aged over 80) but doesn’t necessarily shorten or worsen
the life of elderly men.
Radical prostatectomy is a major
operation that many men with prostate cancer would not survive. If the
prostate gland becomes bothersome (e.g. waking more than twice a night
to urinate) then a Trans Urethral Resection of Prostate (TURP) can be
offered to reduce the size of the prostate gland. This does not cure
cancer but is usually just a minor operation.
Following my experience with the patient above I am of the opinion that
all men aged 45-65 should be screened for prostate cancer and be offered
curative treatment if it is found. I have written to the Chief Medical
Officer to ask why prostate screening is not currently offered. In the
mean time I will be asking all men that I come into contact with, for
any reason, how often they get up at night to wee.
Well done on your tremendous achievement (both running around the world
and saving a mans life).
Dr Robert Rigley
SHO urology
Hi, here are the details of Rosie's
book.
Amazon link
Title: Just a
Little Run Around the World: 5 Years, 3 Packs of Wolves and 53 Pairs of
Shoes.
Pub date: 28th May
£6.99 paperback (includes an 8pp plate section)
isbn: 978-0-00-730620-6
25th of June 2009. Hi, here
are some photos of the unveiling of a plaque at the Tenby Leisure Centre
commemorating Rosie's achievement of running round the world. Thank you
to everyone who organised it, I think it's a lovely thing to have done.
regards James.
11th of June 2009, Hi
everyone, had a great celebration up in London last week. Rosie was
interviewed on the breakfast TV shows. And I met her later at her book
publishers Harper Collins, who had planned a little party for Rosie. A
huge amount of work had gone into getting the book ready and it was
great to put faces to names of the young exciting staff of HarperCollins
who had been involved with all the editing and publication. Also the
Mayor of Hammersmith and Tenby were in attendance as well as a
sprinkling of other friends. To round off the evening we went to the sea
Spitfire restaurant that was nearby and we have a great meal together.
Rosie is back in Tenby now, we finally a chance to catch up with huge
amounts of e-mails she has received. She wants me to thank everyone for
the great support and kind words through the guest book. I'm extremely
impressed with what my mum has achieved. Even her last little run from
Tenby in Wales to London for the prostate Cancer Charity, was a great
achievement and wasn't without its dramas.
Rosie was working to a
very tight deadline to arrive in London for the morning TV interviews
and a couple of days before, Icebird basically snapped in half and if it
wasn't for the extraordinary efforts of a local aluminium welder things
could get very difficult.
But things worked out great, and the main thing is Rosie is safe well
and knowing her I'm sure there will be further adventures happening in
the future. But I think she certainly deserves bit of a break after her
non-stop run round the world followed by non-stop bookwriting.
Warmest regards James.
Me and Rosie.
the Mayor of Hammersmith and
Tenby
These are photographs of the party at HarperCollins.
At the Spitfire restaurant.
The end of a whirlwind day.
21st of May 2009. Hi everyone, had a chat with Rosie yesterday evening,
I could hear the rain crashing down on the roof of Icebird. She is
in the Brecon Beacons. Everything is going really well apart from
an accidental food spill. The big news is that the Daily Mail are
doing a feature in their paper today
Here is the Link. They came out and visited
her yesterday and interviewed her and took some photos. Also next
week they are going to be serialising Rosie's new book, I don't have the
precise details about this right now. Also I have these wonderful
photos of Rosie setting off from her home in Tenby on her way to London.
Many thanks to Malcolm for these. Regards James.
15th May 2009
Hi, Rosie is setting off today with the
Icebird for a little jaunt from Wales to
London,in aid of the prostate
Cancer Charity
Hello Everyone, Just to tell you that I I shall be setting off tomorrow
at 12.30 to run approx 240 miles from Tenby to London pulling ICEBIRD.
This is a special run; Just a Little Run this time, but it means lot to
me because although the world run is over but the battle for cancer
awareness has to go on.
It is in aid of The Prostate Cancer Charity,
www.prostatecancer.org.uk.
I hope to raise as much money and awareness for them as I can, as there
will be some publicity for forthcoming book anyway - and that can help
spread the message that matters so very, very much.
I passionately believe - EARLY SCREEN
SAVES LIVES. Life is precious and often is fragile. The run is also just
a run for plain joy and in thanks and celebration of all those people
everywhere who have helped me succeed in world run against so many odds.
That is something that will be with me forever.
My route will be as follows;-Tenby/Carmarthen/Brecon/Abergavenny/Monmouth/Gloucester/Cheltenham/Cirencester...
Marlborough/Reading Slough/London and on to /London. I aim to arrive in
the centre of London on 5th June - and on to the centre of London.
I look forward to seeing many of you along the way... Please come and
say hello if you spot ICEBIRD!
The talk in Keswick was a privilege to do.. It was brilliantly organised
and well attended. I was thrilled that Gretchen Stevens and so many of
her colleagues and friends from the Centre for Complementary Care and
also my favourite cousin, astronomer Dr John Ponsonby were there. The
raffle was a great success too. Peter Hutchinson's mitts and the racing
jacket donated by The organisers of Keswick Mountain Festival were much
appreciated as prizes.. It's been quite a rush to get home in time to
finish getting ready to set off tomorrow..
I had to catch the 05.57am train from Penrith. I camped in my faithful
bivvi in the centre of a wooded roundabout 2 miles from Penrith - and so
could quickly run to the station this morning. I had a good journey... I
have just got home...
I shall now adjust the new lights for ICEBIRD, finish getting ready for
the London.. Meanwhile, my lovely friends and neighbours having been
making cakes and sandwiches to be served 11m30am to 12.30 at what seems
likely to become quite the street party, with half of Warren Street as
well as many others from Tenby.
There'll be a celebration for which I can hardly wait when London too -
Eve and Pete, my grandson Michael and little 2 year old Lucy and James
will be there..- and we'll go out for a meal and have fun.
Not even Dick Whittington and his cat could have enjoyed arriving in
London as much as I am going to do. More details as plans develop on the
road. I'll be sending little updates.
A huge special thank you again to my dear son James. I wrote yesterday's
short update on this Blackberry when I was racing through woods I had to
try to get to Keswick in time for a photoshoot being arranged by the
Keswick Festival. I ran a few yards, wrote some words; then raced on.
Just like in the old days while writing the blog on the run. In the end,
I only managed to send the little update to James with about four hours
to go to the lecture that evening. I couldn't even read it well as my
specs were steamy and sweaty. No fear, James who is always calm and
works faster than anyone I know, somehow got it up on the website in
time. . He's amazing. Rosie.
13th of May 2009 latest news.
Hi everyone, it's been a while
since I last updated website so please forgive me all those waiting for
news of what Rosie is up to.
I am delighted to report, that Rosie's book "Just a little run around
the World". is going to be available on the 28th of May in paperback.
Add is published by Harper Collins.
On the 23rd of April was awarded the Jane Tomlinson Inspiration Award
2009 chosen by the readers of Runner's World magazine. this was a
wonderful occasion with most of Britain's sporting talent in attendance.
Rosie also ran the London Marathon, completing in a time of six hours
and seven minutes.
Now to current news.
Tonight Rosie is in Keswick giving a talk at the Keswick Mountain
Festival at 6 pm. apologies for the rather last-minute announcement of
this event. I've just received this update from Rosie who is running
towards the event and is a few miles away from the festival.
Also I would like to include an e-mail from a lovely lady and friend of
Rosie called Gretchen Stevens. Highlighting the details of the Centre
for Complementary Care, which is a wonderful organisation.
All the best James.
Dear Everybody, I am running this
morning to the sound of birdsong. The sunlight is dancing on the hills
and the bluebells are out in woods. It is wonderful to be in the Lake
District again. It is Heaven. I am on a run from Penrith to Keswick.in
honour of the Keswick Mountain Festival where I shall be giving a talk
tonight 6 to 7pm. I would like to thanks Cheryl, Tara, Cathy and
everyone involved for inviting me to do the talk and especially, for
kindly arranging to hold holding a raffle at my talk -as this raffle is
in aid of the wonderful Centre for Complementary Care, Eskdale. As first
prize I shall be giving a pair of the Peter Hutchinson Omega down mitts
- that saved my hands at -62C in Siberia and Alaska..
I shall telling stories about how to cope with the cold and what
happened after - got knocked unconscious while crossing a river - about
the wolves - - most of all I shall be talking about all the people I met
who taught me that good is stronger than evil... You'll all be in my
thought tonight. My very marvellous son James is STILL on the case - I
am so grateful to him for putting this out - so sorry it is late..
I am now on a glorious cycle path with only about three miles to go to
Keswick I have to send this now - and head into town..... I would just
like say a deep THANK YOU to everybody. You have been absolutely
brilliant to me. Thank you to so very many of you for checking in while
I was writing the book - even when I was buried in words and struggling
to get to the deadline and could not often reply. The deadline was very
tight. I am so relieved and grateful that I made it "JUST A LITTLE RUN
AROUND THE WORLD" is coming out this month in paperback published by
Harper Collins.- I couldn't have kept going with a story that often felt
like WAR AND PEACE. without all the sublime and amazing help from all my
family and friends.
Rosie.
Hi James. Further to our conversation this morning, the web address for
the Centre for Complementary Care is www.cccare.org. It tells about us
and the healing work we do in West Cumbria.
Rosie has been a friend for many years and a loyal supporter of the
Cenre since it began 20 years ago. She will be mentioning it in her talk
at the Mountain Festival at Keswick on Wednesday, May 13th and holding a
raffle for us there. The Centre is a beautiful place in tranquil
surroundings, where people come for healing treatment, regardless of
their ability to donate towards the cost of their care. We never turn
anyone away. Research outcomes published in professional journals in the
US and UK indicate "significant benefit" from healing by gentle touch.
Hope that is enough to get us going. If you need anything else, please
e-mail gretchenstevens@googlemail.com.
Best regards, Gretchen
--
Gretchen Stevens
Director
Centre for Complementary Care
Ravenglass, Cumbria CA18 1RD
01229 717 355
www.cccare.org
21st of March 2009.
Rosie at Buckingham Palace after
receiving her MBE
21st of March 2009. Hi
everyone I hope everyone is having a wonderful day and wish all mums
including my own, a happy Mother's Day tomorrow. Here are some
photos of the day Rosie received her MBE from the Queen. It was a
great occasion and one I don't think I will ever forget. Some very good
friends of Rosie, Patty and Richard had flown over from America to visit
as well as Rosie's stepsister Maude . And we were all staying in the
same hotel the night before and we went out for a lovely meal.
There was a great flurry of activity in the morning between Patty, Maud
my sister and Rosie sorting out last-minute adjustments to the wardrobe
and makeup. We arrived at the Palace by taxi, and we were asked to show
our passports and tickets at the main gate.
We went through the main facade and found ourselves in an inner
courtyard. On the far side an ornate glass gazebo sheltering the main
entrance to the palace. Everyone was incredibly well-dressed, some
wearing very unusual military uniforms. We were then ushered in to the
palace.
It was amazingly opulent, there were marble statues and huge paintings
everywhere you looked there was something fascinating to look at. The
whole ceremony was incredibly well organised and it was an extremely
pleasant experience.
The guests and the recipients of the awards were split off. As
guests we were led into the the main banquet hall and seated to wait for
the ceremony to begin. There was a small orchestra of about 14
musicians playing a pleasant selection of lift music sorry I mean
classical music . Strangely attired palace staff milled about with
warm and friendly expressions as they guided people to the right place.
The Queen's entrance was preceded by her personal guard of Beefeaters
with the full regalia including pikestaffs and ministry of funny walks.
The Queen also had traditional guard of two Ghurkhas, that were quite
possibly trained Ninjas.
The Queen looked great, she had wonderfully sparkly eyes. When it was
Rosie's turn to receive her award the Queen seemed very animated and
knew about Rosie's past adventures. She actually spoke to Rosie
the longest out of all those receiving awards.
After the ceremony we took some photos, and had some taken outside.
After this we went round to Catherine's house to meet up with our
friends. Catherine had put on an amazing feast and we had some
champagne and it was a great way to round off an amazing day.
Regards James Swale
Me with Michael Rosie's grandson
With my sister Eve.
Pete Stanway, My sister's husband & Lucy and
Michael.
Good friends of Rosie Richard,
Patty
and Catherine.
Arriving at Buckingham Palace.
7th of March 2009, Latest news.
7th of March 2009. Hi everyone, I am
delighted to report that Rosie handed over the manuscript of her book to
the publishers last week. You wouldn't believe how hard Rosie has been
working on this book, it was such a tight deadline.
My mother has a very unique writing style which makes reading a real
joy. The book is very addictive I've been tearing through the chapters
that Rosie has been sending me over the past few months. The book really
is something special and I'm not just saying that because she's my
mother.
And to go with the great sense of celebration about the finished book,
on Tuesday, Rosie will be picking up her MBE at Buckingham Palace. Me my
sister and my nephew and a good friend from Alaska will be joining her
for the ceremony. Should be a great occasion and I'm really looking
forward to it. Hope to post up some pictures when we get back.
Warmest regards James Swale
July Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec. 2008 Latest news. Regular updates every
Weekend.
31st of December 2008. Hi Just wanted to
congratulate my mother Rosie for being awarded an MBE. She is
really over the moon about it, and I am delighted as well. I am so proud
of her and the way she has battled with so many adversities and
challenges during her five years on the road. I think it's an
incredible achievement.
And it's been a great privilege to be
part of it in a small way by managing the website. I've seen human
courage, kindness and hospitality go further than I ever knew were
possible and I have found that so inspiring. I send out a special thanks
to all of Rosie's friends from around the world. God bless you all.
Thank you all so much as well for the
kind guestbook entries and for the many e-mails congratulating Rosie.
Rosie sends her warm regards and we would both like to wish everyone a
wonderful New Year. All the best James Swale.
22nd of December 2008. Happy Christmas
everyone, thank you so much for all the e-mails I'm still getting
congratulating Rosie. This is the first Christmas Rosie has had back
home for five years, and she is having a good old family one in Wales.
Rosie wanted me to wish everyone a very happy Christmas and a wonderful
New Year. I've been digging through the archive and have some more
pictures, there is no particular order, just ones I like and I hope you
enjoy them to. Warmest regards James.
12th of December 2008. Hi everyone.
one thing that Rosie can do now which she was never able to do while
running around the world is to really go through the website and the
guestbook in great detail. Rosie has particularly enjoyed reading
the guestbook again, and wants to thank everyone for their kindness once
more, for all those lovely and supportive messages.
The book is going really well and is
taking every moment of her time. I have some new photos for you here
from the archive. These were taken at various times and places.
The first is a picture of Rosie in Siberia. The second is Rosie in
the far west of Alaska. The others are various from Iceland, Alaska and
America. Warmest regards James Swale
18th of November 2008. Hi I hope everyone
is keeping well. I don't know about you but I've been getting withdrawal
symptoms, and am really missing those regular updates from Rosie when
she was running round the world. I never knew what to expect as
virtually every day new adventures and challenges came up.
A huge number of people followed Rosie's progress on the website, and I
would like to thank you all for your interest and the many lovely
e-mails I still get congratulating her.
Rosie is writing a book at the moment as you properly know, and she has
a fairly steep deadline. Rosie tends not to do things by half measures
and I really feel that she is putting as much effort into writing this
book as she did when running round the world.
I've received many invites for Rosie to attend some very lovely events,
promotions and to do some talks . But right now due to the deadline for
the book she is not able to do much else apart from her writing until
the book is finished around the early part of next year.
Also I thought it would be nice to dig through the photo archive and see
what I could find and post them up. I'm going to do this as a
regular series every week.
Here is a message from Rosie herself she
sent me today. Regards James
Hello Everybody,
Just to let you know that I am thinking very much about you all.
I am working hard on the book.. I have today finished Chapter 17... and
am heading east towards Siberia.
It feels as if I am running around the world all over again - through
the book. I think this journey will never end...
I need to tell you that you all are part of what has been the
extraordinary and special five years of my whole life..
Thank you all so much for everything... Thank you for always being there
for me - through thick and thin!!!
I am sitting here, and I must tell you had my little home does not feel
like a house - it just feels like an extension of my beloved cart
Icebird.
Love and best wishes to you all,
Rosie
This is Rosie arriving in Tok Alaska.
Being met by Abigail Neil from the BBC. This was an absolutely lovely
place, we receive such warm hospitality.
6th of October 2008. Hi, you might hear
Rosie on the radio today, she is helping to promote awareness of Living
Streets, for 'walk to School month'. It is an initiative to encourage
more primary school children to walk to and from school. Which I think
is a great idea
Rosie is in London and she is doing a whole series of interviews for
local radio stations around the UK to talk about this and why she
supports it.
It was Rosie's birthday on the 2nd of October and he came up to London
and stayed at my sisters. She had a great day and also her birthday was
a five year anniversary of her setting off to run round the world.
Here is a message from Rosie herself.
Dear Everybody, Thank you all so very much for your wonderful birthday
wishes. It is also magical that today is the exact 5 year anniversary of
setting off -. Life will never, never be the same ever again - it will
be much more fun! - That's because of your amazing encouragement and
support - with the running and the writing! - you'll be part of
everything I do and plan in the future.... I loved your comments and
with Jim's great update for the web! Anyway, I am now on Chapter 7 of
the book. I shall soon be describing my first winter in Russia. Writing,
brings it all back - I feel as if I am running around the world again!!
WOW! At least this time I won't need all those replacement running
shoes!
Rosie
Also on an unrelated matter I've started a support group called
Patientfriends, Rosie is very interested by this. The aim of the
group is to support those who are being treated by the NHS (the UK's
National Health Service). And also to campaign for a better level of
patient care. I really love the NHS but I would like to see people
served by it given more of a voice. I think this would allow people to
become interested and involved with their local NHS service. which I
believe will improve levels of patient care.
The website to Patientfriends is
www.patientfriends.org.uk its bit of a work in progress but
please take a look.
If this is an area that interests you
please drop me a line with any thoughts or suggestions.
This is obviously a local issue to the
UK, but I'm a great believer in people power, and if there is any issue
you care about strongly, whatever they may be. I urge you to start
your own groups and to believe that when people get together they can
make a difference and improve things.
Regards James
2nd of October 2008. Hi I hope
everyone is keeping well. Thank you all so much for your interest
in my mother's world run. We've had an amazing number of people
visiting the website, I've been telling Rosie this but I'm not sure that
she completely believed me. So I thought I would post the web stats for
August/ September, and this year.
| |
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|
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|
|
|
|
| |
Jan
2008 |
Feb
2008 |
Mar
2008 |
Apr
2008 |
May
2008 |
Jun
2008 |
Jul
2008 |
Aug
2008 |
Sep
2008 |
Oct
2008 |
Nov
2008 |
Dec
2008 |
|
| Month |
Unique visitors |
Number of visits |
Pages |
Hits |
Bandwidth |
| Jan 2008 |
2953 |
3941 |
7821 |
210079 |
2.11 GB |
| Feb 2008 |
6613 |
9657 |
30057 |
561068 |
5.25 GB |
| Mar 2008 |
6826 |
10492 |
25949 |
449468 |
3.89 GB |
| Apr 2008 |
7243 |
10660 |
23025 |
533680 |
4.80 GB |
| May 2008 |
7121 |
10522 |
24554 |
442539 |
4.88 GB |
| Jun 2008 |
18517 |
23857 |
65326 |
1964436 |
27.08 GB |
| Jul 2008 |
8413 |
13559 |
33642 |
679816 |
8.64 GB |
| Aug 2008 |
17416 |
25493 |
66095 |
2414515 |
26.38 GB |
|
Sep 2008 |
6449 |
10217 |
21883 |
701316 |
7.65 GB |
| Oct 2008 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
| Nov 2008 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
| Dec 2008 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
| Total |
81551 |
118398 |
298352 |
7956917 |
90.68 GB |
Having a little trouble getting the bar
charts to show their colour, but basically the bars are in the same
order as the coloured tabs on the table, for example January 2008 the
first transparent bar is unique visitors, the next is number of visits,
the next is pages, then hits then bandwidth. The same pattern for
all the other months. I'm having the same issue with the full
website statistics, but as above all the chart bars are in the same
order as the coloured chart tabs, so it's fairly clear I hope.
To view the full website statistics please
click here
It's really great because, the charities
she was raising awareness for and the issue of cancer awareness is so
important it's lovely to know that the word has been spread and
hopefully it will help to do some good.
It's great to have Rosie back I'm having
a lot of contact with her and the book is going to be amazing, I'm
actually the unofficial editor though she does not need my advice as she
is doing a great job.
I have to say I do miss talking to Rosie
to get the latest news, because it was never the same there was always
some challenge to be battled through, and more often stories of great
kindness and hospitality from people she had met on her journey.
In regards to the future of the website
I'd like to keep it ticking over, it's a nice archive, and I hope to
keep it available to everyone. If anyone has any thoughts or ideas
about website, please drop me a line at the usual address james_swale@rosiearoundtheworld.co.uk
And a quick message I got Rosie herself,
to you all.
Warmest regards James Swale.
From Rosie:
Dear Everybody, I just want to say I am
so very touched and inspired by the huge number of people who have
visited my website.
I miss the run-and I miss all those I met. I working on the book and
have a hard deadline, but it will be for all of you - it will be my
thank you.
I shall be contacting you whenever I can especially ,re dates and
checking details for the book, but
Hello to Lila and the Amish people..
hello to wonderful Nancy Rodgriquez -who had my toenails painted red for
the Chicago Marathon - which helped me go much fast..
Hello to ALL my dear friends everywhere in the world.
I will turn up to visit you all one of these days, when the book is
done.
Just hang in there for me - writing the book is harder than the running,
but it is such a chance to relive everything too.. I am DETERMINED to
make it.
Especially I honour James my brilliant son, who organised the website in
the first place, and my daughter Eve, who is so beautiful and smart, She
always said. 'Mum, a circle of hands around the world is going to help
you, and bring you home' - This is what has happened. All across America
and everywhere, you have become my family also.
I thinking have the biggest family in the world
love to you all,
Rosie
16th of Sep 2008, hi everyone, a little postcard for the web site
from Rosie here. Rosie received the Prestigious Paul Harris Fellowship
Award, presented to her by the Rotary Club who themselves do a huge
amount for charity and the local community.
"Paul Harris Fellow recognition was created in 1957 in memory of
the founder of Rotary as a way to show appreciation for contributions to
the Foundation's charitable and educational program. A Paul Harris
Fellow is an individual who contributes £1,000 or in whose name that
amount is contributed. Every Paul Harris Fellow receives a pin, a
medallion and a certificate when he or she becomes a Fellow. This
identifies the Paul Harris Fellow as an advocate of the Foundation's
goals of world peace and international understanding."
Rosie is heavily stuck into writing the book about her adventures, we
have been in very close contact and she has been reading me chapters and
sending me drafts, it's a lot of fun. Rosie is putting an incredible
amount to work into this, and its coming out really great.
Regards James
From Rosie
Date: Sun, 14 Sep 2008 00:17:28
Subject: THANK YOU TENBY ROTARY CLUB. Web postcard
The PAUL HARRIS FELLOWSHIP is the greatest honour I have ever
received in my life.
THANK YOU TENBY ROTARY FOR THIS FABULOUS AWARD THAT WAS PRESENTED TO
ME AT A FANTASTIC WELCOME DINNER AT THE FOURCROFT HOTEL IN TENBY ON LAST
TUESDAY.
Thank also so much for the amazingly sponsorship
A cheque for THOUSAND POUNDS Was given to me made out to the prostate
cancer charity and
THREE HUNDRED POUNDS FROM. THE KIND TENBY LIONS WHO WERE AMONG THE
WONDERFUL GUESTS
Most of all it was a happy, warm beautiful night out with many
distinguished people including my personal dear friends and the
Soropomists and other organisations and the Governor Elect of Rotary
South Wales.
I shall treasure and prize the FELLOWSHIP and the memory of this
evening forever.
Thank you also to Those friends who have sent sponsorship for the
cancer society and for the Kitezh Community for children in Russia.
I am on chapter two of my book now.. It's quite a challenging chapter
I am thinking of you all i working as hard as I can!
Rosie.
5th of August 2008, Hi here is a message from Rosie, I spoke to her
today and she had this done a radio interview for a show that will be
broadcast in the Middle East, and has 6 million listeners, which is
really exciting.
This is a nice picture of Rosie on a camel, that I took from a photo
in Rosie's house, thought it would be fun to post it, I think it from
when Rosie ran the Sahara marathon. Regards James
'WEB POSTCARD From Rosie.
Thank you all for the most fantastic welcome. No film, King, Queen or
Princess EVER had such a brilliant as I did in Tenby at THE FINISH!!! I
am deeply moved and so grateful I dedicate my run to every person I've
met along the way, as well those I'll may never meet, but who have all
made all the difference through your treasured comments and letters! .
My next challenge will be writing the book! It is exciting that
Harper want to publish it next spring. It will inspire me that you'll
all be with me in spirit through every word. It's fun, not having to
write by torchlight having to eke out fading batteries anymore!
Amazing, to live again in a home where one can just press a switch -
and turn on a light! Also, being able to turn a tap on!
The first bath I had at home felt so marvellous - that I went to
sleep in it and let the water overflow!! My first domestic challenge!!!!
Anyway, re the writing, special thanks to Steve Fisher of Webb Computers
for sponsorship of printer and hugely reduced in cost laptop, and to my
fabulous Master of the Web and dear son James, a genius, who set it all
up for me while he was here.
To TROT ST Clears, THE BLADES, TENBY ROTARY CLUB AND INNER WHEEL,
Tenby Fire Service, Tenby Police. and thousands of others. Through thick
and thin, above all, very much love to my my fabulous family, Eve, James
Pete, the kids, Bob, Nancy, Victor, Patty, Rich, Kevin, Marianne, Maude,
Kaye, Gerald, Mark. Mandy, Andrew, Lila, Susan, Nicolas, Ann, Catherine,
Geoff . Many more.....- all of you far and wide. Rosie
3rd of September 2008. Hi, I have just uploaded to Youtube some
footage of Rosie speaking to the press and crowd, outside her house. I
think Rosie's energy and optimism really shines through here, it's well
worth a look. Please follow the link
here
or below to watch
it. Also here are some more photos that I took.
One thing I forgot to mention before, and that is a huge thank you to
the ladies who belong to the 'Inner Wheel', the wives of the Rotary Club
members, who who laid on an amazing spread of food and cakes for about
30 people at Rosie's house. there were some of the nicest home-made
cakes I think I have ever tasted in my life, particularly the Victoria
sponge cake.
Thanks again for all your lovely e-mails, I've been in close contact
with Rosie, and she is doing great, and has a very tight deadline to
produce her book. I've had a lot of e-mails from people wondering
about whether Rosie is available to do talks about her adventures and
experiences. Thank you so much for the interest, but I don't think
it's going to be possible until after she has finished writing.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ixzSTuDboU
Rosie on Youtube talking with the press, follow link to watch, click
click click.
Rosie being photographed by Adrian Sherratt for her article in the
Sunday Times
Some stills of Rosie talking with the press.
Abigail Neill who did a great piece about Rosie's homecoming on the
local BBC News. Abigail had previously visited Rosie in Alaska to
do a TV programme about her. Here interviewing Rosie's mother Marianne
Griffin.
T.R.O.T St Clears running club, about to set a new record of how many
people can fit into Rosie's front room
We had a lovely meal later on that evening, at the Mews Bistro, with friends and
family. In the photos are Gerald Rosie's brother and his wife
Kay. And in the other Maude Rosie's sister and John Ponsonby
Rosie's cousin.
This is my cousin Mark Ottman and his wife Mandy and son, who I met
for the first time, we had an absolutely great evening together.
30th of August 2008 Hi, the radio show was really good, Sandi Toksvig
is very witty and it was a lot of fun. Excess Baggage, is also available
to download as a podcast which is great news.
I would like to mention also, that the Sunday Times have done a piece
about Rosie, for this Sunday's edition of the newspaper. I was in Tenby
when the photographer came down for the photo shoot. And Rosie was
wearing glamorous clothes down on the beach, a contrast with her normal
running around the world gear, so you may not recognise her. All the
best James.
Hi, I just found out that Rosie is going
to be on the BBC radio 4 show 'Excess Baggage', as a guest this
Saturday. The show starts at 10 AM, Saturday the 30th of August. And
will be available on listen again for seven days at the BBC web site
http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio4/excessbaggage/
regards James
29th of August. Hi here are some more
photos has promised. Thank you all so much in for the lovely e-mails of
congratulations and stories about Rosie and what an inspiration she is.
I am very proud of her myself and delighted she made it back in one
piece. I shall be forwarding on all these kind messages to her that I
have been sent. Regards James
Rosie heading towards the centre of
Tenby, accompanied by T.R.O.T.S running club.
The finish line and celebration at Tudor
Square, with the Mayor and Ann Rowell a good friend.
And that's me Rosie's son James. I am
absolutely over the moon that she is made it back safely. It was a
lovely occasion, with so much warmth and kindness towards Rosie. It was
wonderful also see family and friends who had come for Rosie's return.
Some who had travelled as far as Alaska and Ireland to be here. A huge
thank you for all the photos and absolutely wonderful e-mails. There is
plenty more I would like to post up over the next few days. Warmest
regards James
A kind friend, coming out to wash
Rosie's hair in the morning, to look good for the cameras.
Looking cool.
29th of August 2008. Hi everyone, I just come back from seeing my
mother Rosie complete her epic world run, when she returned to the point
she started off five years ago. It was an absolutely wonderful occasion,
she got an amazing reception in Tenby when she arrived. And the loudest
cheer I think I've ever heard from the crowd in Tudor Square. I have
loads of great pictures and news.
The full website update will be ready at about nine o'clock this
evening. Until then I will leave you with a couple of photographs of
Rosie speaking to the crowd after reaching the finish line. Regards
James
23rd of August 2008. Hi, just getting ready to set off to Tenby
tomorrow morning, so this will probably be the last update until I get
back next week, and when I do, I shall be telling you all about it. I've
had a another great collection of photos sent through by Malcolm,
showing Rosie battling on with her crutches. Thank you very much for
them.
I've had tonnes of e-mails from well wishes, and countless offers of
hospitality and help, thank you all so much. All these messages have
been a great boost to Rosie, also those cheering her on from the
roadside, and she wanted me to thank everyone very much. I hope everyone
has a great weekend and look forward to speaking with you all again when
I get back. Warmest regards James
Hi James Just to update you Saturday. Rosie has pass through Narberth
and as always in good spirits. The steep hill out of the town been
difficult holding back Icebird hands are aching but she says home is
almost in sight. Malcolm Oh yes this pic is of the traffic jam with all
the motorists slowing and stopping to congratulate Mum
22nd of August 2008. Hi things are getting really exciting now, only
a few more days and Rosie will be home at last. Rosie has had the most
wonderful support and encouragement from everyone during this final
stage of her journey.
Her hands are getting a little sore from using the crutches but she
is really happy because she knows she will be able to make you on time.
This is important to her because she has friends and family coming from
quite long distances and did want to let anyone down. I told her that
would be impossible no matter what happened.
I've had quite a few questions about this so this is the plan for
bank holiday Monday. TROTS running club and any other runners who would
like to join in are meeting at 2 o'clock at the New Hedges roundabout.
Rosie is going to going ahead slowly to be at Tudor Square for 2.30 pm.
The runners are going to set off at the time they need to arrived at the
Square, at about the same time.
The reason for this is that Rosie will be on crutches and travelling
at a low walking speed. So that is the end target time of 2:30pm in
Tudor Square. This will be the end of her five-year long, world
run. Come along if you can, it should be a great celebration.
I've had some great photos sent through, many thanks for them.
Regards James
Hi James I have spent a great afternoon photographing Rosie on the
A478.Met up with her around the Crymych area , She arrived at the
LLandissilio holiday park at 4pm and was greeted by about two hundred
emotional happy tearful holiday makers She spent about 20 mins in their
company chatting and being photographed before moving on. The crowed
wanted her to stay longer. Her spirits are high despite the pain .Find
you on Monday. There are a number of pics attached for you to use.
Malcolm
Hi James
I attach a picture of Vicky, Rachel and Chris with Rosie on the A478
between Crymych and Efailwen this evening. Rosie showed determination,
even though struggling with pain, but showed her appreciation of our
support towards her
Thank you Malcolm and Vicky, Rachel and Chris for all the great
photos.
21st of August 2008. Hi everyone, great news Rosie is back out on the
road heading towards Tenby. She is taking it nice and easy and using the
aid of crutches. I just got a call for Rosie just now at noon and she is
25 miles from Tenby on the A478 where she has just stopped for a cup of
tea. She is very positive and has been receiving much encouragement and
he has been going along the road.
Rosie was a bit concerned that people might think she is not going to
make her target time of her arrival in Tenby. Particularly because
friends have travelled a long way to be therefore her homecoming. She
assured me that The date that she will be coming into Tenby is still
the same, the 25th of August, bank holiday Monday in the afternoon.
She is following medical advice, and despite being bit of a challenge it
is doable and safe.
Rosie has had some fabulous help from TROTS running club who have
been helping with Icebird. And also Huw and Lisa who have been pretty
much Rosie's guardian angel's the past week. A huge thank you to
everyone, including the staff at Withybush hospital. Just how these
great photos and e-mail set me by Lisa.
Regards James
Hi James.. Rosie is back on the road and is as determined as ever,
She is on crutches and is making slow but good progress. The lovely
people from the Forest Outdoor Shop brought her some waterproof trousers
and a nice warm jacket. Which she was really pleased about .
Its been a privilege to spend time with her and look forward to
seeing her again soon..
I am really looking forward to reading her book about her great
adventure
Lisa
With
chauffeur
Back on the road 25 miles to Tenby
Hi, just a quick correction: in the above photo with Rosie are Cris
and Naomi from Forest Outdoor Shop, They kindly brought her some warm
waterproof clothes for her journey. Standing outside Huw and Lisa's
house. Regards James.
20th of August 2008. Hi, Rosie has two stress fractures in her leg.
This was discovered after the scan she had yesterday. Rosie is getting
good advice from consultants and is seeing the physiotherapists later
today. At the moment, I don't really know now what Rosie is able to do
regarding getting about, if anything, and how it is going to affect her
homecoming returned date. I received a message from her, but have not
been able to get through to her yet by phone. I will let you all know as
soon as I know. Regards James.
19th of August 2008. Hi everyone, Rosie is still in Withybush
hospital and great spirits. She is having a scan on her leg later this
afternoon, I will let you all know what the results are as soon as I get
them myself. Also here are some great photos kindly sent in by Dr Glyn
Jones who interviewed Rosie for his radio show on Radio Ceredigion.
Sadly I have missed the deadline for telling you all about this, as the
show was this morning. But it is available on listen again at
www.radioceredigion.net and will be repeated on Sunday 24th August at 12
noon.
James
I am sending you some photos of Rosie Swale - Pope taken between
Llanrhystud and Aberaeron on 13 8 08 by Dr Glyn Jones unless of course I
am in some of the photos ! Dr Glyn Jones.
Please draw attention to the hour long local radio programme I shall
be presenting on your mother's effort on Tuesday 19 8 08 on Radio
Ceredigion which can be heard on the internet
www.radioceredigion.net
at 10 am with a repeat on Sunday 24th August at 12 noon - by pressing
Listen to Us Live button
Thanks Dr Glyn Jones
Also I have a lovely e-mail from Huw and Lisa who came to Rosie's
rescue when they saw her struggling with her bad leg. My warmest thanks
to you. Regards James
Hi James ..I have spent some of today and yesterday with your amazing
mother ..She is a real inspiration ..I don't know if you already have
been told but she has hurt her leg ..
Don't panic she is OK ..
She was in obvious discomfort when she was passing our house
yesterday so my hubby offered her a cup of coffee ..She then felt it
would be best for her to rest for a while so we offered her a hiding
place in our garden so she would get peace ..
Later that day she was going to continue with her journey but we
convince her to stay put and see how she was feeling in the morning ..
This morning still in discomfort it was decided that she needed to go
to the hospital to be properly checked out...They are hoping that it is
just a muscle strain but have kept her in over night to get rest and has
a scan in the morning to see what is wrong with her leg ..
When I left her she was in good spirit and planning the rest of the
journey ..
I have added a photo of her yesterday ..Didn't think to take the
camera today ! silly me !! ..There were a lot of doctors and nurses that
would have loved to have had a photo with your mum .. I think your mum
would have liked to have had photos of everyone she met today Lisa.
17th of August 2008. Hi, Rosie did not want anyone to worry,
but this morning found that she was barely able to stand up, as her leg
injury became extremely painful. Luckily Rosie has been camping in the
garden of Huw and Lisa, and they suggested that she goes to Withybush
hospital accident an emergency to get her leg looked at. There is the
possibility of there being a stress fracture, and there is going to be
more tests carried out tomorrow. Rosie is pretty sure this won't affect
the time of her arrival on the 25th as she only has to do five miles a
day. I will keep you all informed of all developments when I get them.
Regards James.
17th of August 2008 Hi everyone, sorry for the slight delay in a
loading the update. He is a message from Rosie that I have transcribed
from text messages.
Hi Jim, just to say thank you so very much to the hundreds of lovely
people who have been standing out along the roadside day after day to
cheer Icebird on towards Tenby! I am profoundly touched. From the big
welcome by the children and "The Fastest Milkman in the West"
in Aberaeron to the kindness and hospitality after I arrived at the
fabulous Forest Outdoor Shop last night. It belongs to James Lynch and
Sian Tucker. I feel privileged to meet them. I can only describe James
and Sian as remarkable people who bring so much to the community and
wildlife in this glorious part of Wales. I’ll never forget any of it.
I’ve been trying to run high mileages since Liverpool. I had
injured one of my legs slightly but had neglected it amid all the
excitement of seeing my family. It had got worse, but no problem, unlike
Siberia where one has to get on with it.
Today I am going crazy with excitement. I have crossed into my home
county of Pembrokeshire! I am within a shot of Tenby. It is just 30
miles away. I will not be there until 25^th August. I shall so much
enjoy easing off the pace now, nursing the leg, just running a few miles
each day, savouring the anticipation of HOMECOMING!
I warmly thank Ann Rowell, who has done so much to make my world run
possible, and is arranging the end of it in a fantastic way. She has
asked me to be at New Hedges Roundabout at 2pm on 25th of August and
meet up with my running club TROTS and all run into Tenby together.
Anyone else who would like to meet me there, and run in with me would be
very welcome. Love Rosie
This is Steve Holland with Rosie, the designer who built Rosie's
first two carts Hercules and Charlie and designed Icebird. You did a
great job there, much appreciated.
Kindly sent in Peter Stone.
Hi James,
My name is Daniel Smart and I own Greenfields Caravan Park in
Pentregat, near Llangranog, West Wales. You mom chose to stop the night
with us last night, and I just wanted to leave a message of thanks as
She is
A fantastic person to meet. I took a photo of your mom with my
daughter, niece and nephew and two of their friends so I thought I would
send you, if you want to use it on the website that is ok. I hope you
mom has a safe final trip home.
Many Thanks, Daniel
16th of August 2008. Hi everyone. Things are going really well, Rosie
is in great spirits and I have been sent loads of photos. Just to let
you know that the full web site update will be later on ready for Sunday morning. Regards James
13th of August 2008. Just a quick update to let people know the plan
for Rosie's arrival in Tenby on the 25th August bank holiday. This has
been kindly organised by Ann Rowell. This was forwarded to me by her.
On Monday 25th August at 2pm we will meet Rosie at New Hedges
roundabout, just north of Tenby. On our way in to Tenby, Tenby Aces the
cycling club will be in front of her and TROTS running club will be
behind her. Anyone else who wants to escort Rosie in to Tenby will be
behind the runners.
The Mayor, Sue Lane will be in Tudor Square with her mace bearers to
greet Rosie at the finishing ribbon. A few words will be said before
Rosie returns back to her house for the first time in almost 5 years.
Everyone is welcome to come and join the celebration of Rosie's
return from her wonderful world run. Also there is a great article in
this month's Runners World Magazine, Written by Rosie which I highly
recommend. Regards James
9th of August 2008. Hi everyone, not long to go now before Rosie
arrives back home to complete her epic journey. As I mentioned before
Rosie blackberry is out of order so this update from her is a mixture of
text and phone call transcribed by me. And here are couple more photos
from Last week in Liverpool. Regards James.
Rosie at the River Bar & Grill
Liverpool
From Rosie.
100 miles to go! I am now close to Dolgellau, but shall be taking a
short cut up the mountain B4416 Road, before heading for Machynlleth. It
was a big day yesterday because Steve Holland drove from Nottingham to
visit me. Steve was the designer who built Hercules and Charlie the two
carts that I have been some of the toughest conditions of Siberia and
Alaska. Steve was also involved with the design of my current cart
Icebird.
I want to say that I am especially thinking of all my friends in
Alaska and the other wonderful friends in Alaska who saved my foot when
I had frostbite particularly the Alaska National Guard, Bob Collins,
State Trooper Honey Abercrombie and her colleagues. Surrounded as I am
right now by warmth and welcome in Wales and all the way down Britain,
please remember that I am thinking of you all. Without you and many,
many others from day one, I would not have made it.
I am really looking forward to my homecoming in Tenby on 25th to see
friends and family who are coming to the finish of my world run. And
special thanks to Ann Rowell who has organised my homecoming day and
link up with Trots running club for when I come into Tenby in the
afternoon. Regards Rosie
Also many thanks for this e-mail and photos from when Rosie was in
Scotland. James
Hi there, just a line to say that i, Roger Cole, and my wife Lesley
Cole saw rosie on the coast road of northern scotland on 20th june. we
over took her and stoppped to say hello. what a lovely lady she is. we
were on holiday up there, we live in East Sussex. we chatted for 10
minutes or so and Rosie seemed to fall in love with our dogs, Storm the
collie and Angus the rottweiller as you can see from 1 of the 3 attached
photos. we hope that rosie makes it home ok by the time she wanted to.
regards Roger and Lesley Cole.
6th of August 2008. Hi Rosie's blackberry seems to have stopped
working. She sent me this text, as she wanted to thank many people.
From Rosie... regarding the meding of Icebird, special gratitude to
Terry Owens, owner of the fabulous River Bar and Grill. Engineer and
welder Christian Gilhooley, Geoff Turton managing director of Vision
specialist aluminium welding for racing car teams and inventor of
fantastic Vision Racing Driving Simulators... And Ray and Maureen and
son-in-law Pete for the lovely hospitality last weekend...
5th of August 2008. Hi, I would just like to report some great
news. The publisher HarperCollins, has kindly offered to publish a book
written by Rosie about her experiences and adventures during her
single-handed world run. This is wonderful news, the book is due to come
out in Spring next year. I will keep you all posted.
A huge thank you to
BBC Wales and ITV and BBC Wales radio for their interest in Rosie's
world run and their efforts to find Rosie on the road. I have just
spoken to Rosie and she has had a great day, running many miles. Regards James
5th of August 2008. Rosie has crossed over the Welsh border. I have
been sent some photos by my sister. By chance Icebird's poles snapped
off just as she and Maureen met Rosie as she was pulling the cart over a
curb. Much better here than halfway up a Welsh mountain. These poles
were wonderfully fixed, I accidentally deleted Rosie's message telling
me who had done the work but I will hopefully speak to her soon. Regards
James.
oops
stow
aways
Maureen and grandkids with Rosie
4th of August 2008. Hi Rosie had a lovely time with the family. My
sister Eve her husband Pete and my nephew and niece Michael and Lucy
went up to meet Rosie in Liverpool where Pete's family is from and
stayed with his mother and father Ray and Maureen Stanway. There were
many other friends and relatives about as well. And Rosie wanted me to
thank everyone very much.
There have been a few dramas though as Icebird Rosie's mobile
residence which she pulls along broke very badly at a welding join. But
through the amazing effort of some people, (who I am not quite sure
their names), this has been fixed and Rosie is now back on target and is
on the Ferry across the Mersey River. And will be in Wales very soon.
Just as a reminder, Rosie is aiming to arrive back to her home in
Tenby of the 25th of August. Regards James
1st of August 2008. Hi everyone, I have had
some lovely pictures and e-mails sent to me. Thank you all very much for
them and also the kindness and hospitality you have given Rosie. She has
been met with great warmth and friendship since coming to
Liverpool.
I would like to give my warmest regards
to Ray and Maureen Stanway and the rest of the family. Also Rosie is
going to be crossing over into Wales Monday afternoon. Regards James.
Date: Fri, 1 Aug 2008 09:59:47 from: Rosie
Subject: Postcard from Liverpool!
THIS IS A wonderful day!
I am off to meet up with Eve, Pete, Michael and Lucy - and Pete's parents Ray and Maureen Stanway in Tuebrook Liverpool...
I'll be staying for two days, and am going camping with my grandson..!
Never mind running around the world..THIS IS THE BEST EXPERIENCE IN THE WHOLE..
I can hardly wait to see them all this afternoon.
Also thank you to all the great people of Aintree and Liverpool. The kind security man who looks after a large
car park in Aintree gave me special permission to sleep there on my way in to the city. I woke to find the friendly staff of B and Q Aintree waving at me and saying 'Good Morning,'. They invited me in and arranged for me to have a marvellous shower in their personal bathroom! so I'm all shiny and full of beans for the last few miles to Tuebrook.
This is just a brief postcard - as I want to spend ALL time I can with my family... I want to be waiting when Eve and clan arrive this afternoon!
It's going to be brilliant. I love them all so much.
As always, the biggest lesson I learn again and again on this journey - is that the real adventure is every single day of life.
The most beautiful and precious experiences are the ones that countless thousands share, like seeing a child smile, falling in love, having parties! Those are the most treasured memories.
Yet the toughest experiences are also so very sadly known by almost everyone at some time. The worry about illness, loss, other problems...
If my run has helped people, that means more than I can ever say.
THANK YOU AGAIN EVERYBODY SO VERY MUCH.. YOU GIVE ME ALL THE ENERGY AND STRENGTH - ONLY 171 MILES to The Finish' in Tenby as of today!!!!!!
Rosie
END
Hi james met Rosie today at the roadside by
the A59 NEAR RUFFORD. Rosie was in good spirits and looking forward to
seeing her family in Liverpool. Rosie spent some time talking to Daniel
my 7 year old foster child. I don't think Daniel will ever forget Rosie
he has been looking at the website. enclosed is a pic of Daniel with Rosie
this afternoon. regards olive fallows
Hi James
I have just met your Mum whilst i was out doing a training bike ride. I was at the traffic lights and i saw your Mum on the grass verge with her " cart " on its side , i shouted was everything ok only to discover she had a near side rear puncture!!
I dismounted and offered my services, i was astonished when i saw the harness and realised she was pulling this contraption NOT riding it.
Anyway we fixed the puncture she allowed me to sit on her sheep skin rug!!!
As I only lived half a mile away , I took her to our house and we took coffee & biscuits on board and i lubed the wheels on the cart. She met my wife Carmel and my daughters Natasha (9 ) and Jessica (5 ).
It was absolutely fascinating to talk with Rosie , the experience has definately made my life richer!!!!
We took several photos and some video ,I will do my best to send them to you.
Best Regards and all the luck in the world to Rosie on her last couple of hundred miles of this fantastic journey.
( The Bald cyclist !! )Steve Groves
Hello James
It was a great pleasure to meet up with Rosie once again, on the A59 Longton By-pass at 18.50 last night
Monday 28th July. Rosie said she was a little tired & just settling down for hours rest before continuing for a further 5 miles later in the evening.
But as usual she was in good spirit & talking about everyone else's achievements
except her own. Find your mother to be a remarkable person always wanting to see the other person succeed.
We hold much respect & admiration for this exceptional lady. We look forward to meeting Rosie again in the near future. photos attached .
Regards Tony & Delia Cowell
26th of July 2008. Hi everyone, have a great
update from Rosie here, and also some of photos of Rosie in
Glasgow. Everything is going really well. A big thank you
to Bryon for the great customer service and the rest of the team at
Namehog.net, who are hosting the web site free of charge. It's been rock
solid for the last five years, and the web site has been getting some
huge traffic averaging 5000 unique visits per day during the days after
Rosie's arrival to the top of Scotland. Regards James
Date: Fri, 25 Jul 2008 10:20:16
To: Rosie
Subject: Privilege WEB POSTCARD
Hello Everybody,
You are all with me every minute as I run down Britain.. Thank you again, your support is amazing and helps me so very much.
I don't need an alarm clock!
I was woken by birdsong at 4am
Every morning, I look forward to this most beautiful of experiences.
My location is near Milnthorpe on the A6. I am only 16 miles north of Lancaster...
I'm getting CLOSER!!!!and CLOSER - only about 240 miles to go now I'm still living in Iceland 98 per cent of the time, so that I can go 'on and off watch' . Running the miles in segments on a 24 hour clock means I can often run at night and in the early hours when traffic is less. So progress at a steady average of about 15 miles a day has been satisfactory.
I'm grateful for so much kindness.
My torn muscle was attended to by the Athletes Angels, and is nearly better.
Icebird's broken welding, which had been weakened by being flung about in one
of the worst winter storms in Iceland, was mended by Graeme Paterson, a wonderful blacksmith in Moffat.
Stuart Laird and his 6 year old grand daughter Heather Laird helped fix a puncture, after one inner tube had 5 holes, and I'd run out of spare tubes and patches..
Off Beat Bikes in Fort William had helped so much too. And fabulously kind friend and ally Geoff Hall drove up to see me last week in Gret Green, kindly bringing comfy new Saucony tops and shorts, sports supplements from Dr Brian Welsby, to encourage my slight leg injury to heal fast!!!!! Best of all, he brought a strobe light for safety, a gift from my always thoughtly generous son James.
ALso there's great news that I'll be meeting up with Eve and many others of my marvellous family in Liverpool en route for Wales
Special thank you to Catherine Addison and Nedd for stoic help with my postbag and much else. Also to Ann Rowell, who is in charge of the TENBY HOMECOMING!!!!!!!
It IS such a privilege to run down Great Britain. The countryside is even more lovely than I had remembered. One of the pleasures of sleeping in the open, is that just like everywhere else, I've become part of the wildlife. At night I see the shining eyes of foxes, and hear
owls. and see the bats flying.. I was also visited by two hedgehogs! Then long before dawn, the birds start
singing, as if they just can't wait for the day.
People amazingly friendly and kind everywhere too! I can't get over how courteous all the traffic is to Icebird. I specially would like to thank the drivers of the big lorries who are especially caring and kind, and the British Police, who are always very helpful and cheery..
So! - only about 240 miles to TENBY as I write this morning.
Every day gets better and better.
Practical life is such fun now. It feels so great to actually be able to call at a store - and buy apples!!
An apple was something beyond my wildest dreams in places like Siberia
During this journey as a whole it has been a great privilege to highlight the
need for cancer awareness and early diagnosis. I've heard from people who tell me they went for a check up because my run reminded them of the need, and that their lives have been saved. I thank the world media, especially the USA and British media for their great help in this.
As the Goshen Center for Cancer Indiana described it when they asked me to be their spokesperson last year -
'EARLY SCREENING SAVES LIVES!'
-Or! as a charming Scottish lady recently put it even more aptly, and straight to the point! -
'LOOK AFTER YOUR BITS AND PIECES...YOU'LL MISS THEM WHEN THEY'RE GONE!!'
The most brilliant and fantastic news of the week of course, has been about the Royal Marsden Hospital's breakthrough in the treatment of Prostate Cancer.
THREE CHEERS. FOR THE ROYAL MARSDEN HOSPITAL - I honour and admire you more than words can say.
Rosie
These photos were kindly sent me by Erwin Losekoot and are from when Rosie
arrived at the botanical Gardens in Glasgow a few weeks ago. Thank you so much
James
20th of July 2008. Hi everyone, been sent some lovely photos. A
couple of weeks ago when Rosie was all her way to Glasgow she pulled a
muscle and it was giving her quite of problems. Rebecca and Aengus of
Athletes Angels came out and did a great job of fixing Rosie's leg in
the basement of a restaurant. Also have a short message from Rosie. A
huge thank you for all the photos. Regards James
From Rosie
Hi Everybody, This is just a 'postcard', to say I am only 15 miles
from Gretna Green!
Later today, I hope to cross the border from Scotland into England -
another huge landmark. Only about 320 miles left to THE FINISH!!
Thank you everybody for your absolutely brilliant support..
Love,
Rosie
Hi James
This is Rebecca the Physiotherapist that looked after Rosie last week
at Loch Lomond. It was great to meet such an inspiring lady and provided
a truly wonderful experience unlike any other that I have encountered in
my career so far! You must be so proud!
I just wanted to send on some of the pics Aengus took whilst Rosie
was having her treatment.
Best Wishes
Rosie at Elvanfoot in South Lanarkshire
sent in by Gregor
Rosie
in Abington sent in by Sue Jenkins
16th of July 2008. Hi a big thank you to
everyone who met up with Rosie last Sunday. Here are some great photos
that I have been sent, I am a bit pushed for time so hope you don't mind
if I put who they are from this weekend, thanks for them. Regards
James.
12th of July 2008. Hi everyone, have an
update from Rosie here. She has been having a muscle problem but
thankfully have received some wonderful treatment from Athletes Angels a
huge thank you to them. Everything is still on for the welcome meeting
when Rosie arrived in Glasgow tomorrow morning. The meet up time is
10.30 outside the botanical Gardens, should be a a lot of fun. Please
scroll down the page for the particulars. Regards James
These photos were kindly sent in by Alma
& Bill Strachan who met Rosie when she was passing through Glencoe,
many thanks.
From Rosie
Hi Jim, Thank you for your lovely message.
News update!
The leg feels much easier, I can walk without pain, and can nearly run! I am on schedule for arrival in St George Square, 10.30 on Sunday. I owe it all to sports physio Rebecca Joyce, who came out to see me on behalf of Athletes' Angels.
Rebecca and her friend Aengus Shanahan, who is a top fitness instructor, acting in his words on this occasion as
'Physio's Roadie!' - drove an hour out of Glasgow in the rain, to find me near Tarbet on the. A82 beside loch
Lomond. They persuaded wonderful staff of the Bonnie Braes cafe to allow the treatment table to be actually put up in the cafe storeroom, so that the
treatment could take place out of the rain and cold.
It was a scene like something from the movies, or from the French underground
resistance, because of the cafe storeroom's atmosphere.. Boxes of wine and soft drinks were around Rebecca as she worked on my legs... Plus, while the delivery men kept
arriving with boxes of provisions etc for the cafe... They all looked astonished to see what was taking
place.
Anyway, Aengus very kindly has taken pics to send to you!!!!
Rebecca is truly great and so is Fiona Lindsay owner of the marvellous Ahletes Angels, who arranged everything.
Rebecca said, it's not a quick fix, it will take time for the inflammation to get cured, - but she gave me some great natural rub cream, and a brilliant cold
bag and exercises, which I have vowed to do 3 times a day!
It means I CAN keep my promises to be in George Square on Sunday.
It is so very important to remember that my run has achieved nothing, unless it can help the Cancer Awareness and Prostate Cancer Society, and the brave children of the Kitezh Community for Children in Russia. I will be handing out leaflets re info on how best to help. I would also like to thank the kind people who have been sponsoring me along the road in Scotland.
Scotland is a beautiful country, and it has a beautiful spirit too!
Rosie
END
9th of
July 2008. Hi, I would like to announce that Rosie is passing through Glasgow this Sunday.
Rob Reid has organised a little publicity and a welcome
and get-together of supporters, well wishers and runners. Which will
also highlight the charities that Rosie's running for.
This is the e-mail I received from Rob Reid which has the particulars.
Rosie will be passing through Glasgow on Sunday 13th July and there's going to be a "Welcome" get-together involving fellow long-distance runners, other supporters, prostate cancer campaigners and (hopefully) the media.
The plan is to meet up at 10:30am at the entrance to Botanic Gardens at corner of Great Western Road and Queen Margaret Drive, and then to escort her as a sort of "Guard of Honour" along the 2 miles to George Square, arriving there about 11:30 and handing out leaflets appealing for funds for Kitezh children's home and/or the Prostate Cancer charity.
If you live in Glasgow or Central Scotland, why not come along and help to make this a really special occasion!
Sounds like a lot of fun, be there if you can. Regards James
6th of July 2008. Hi everything is fine. Rosie is well and Icebird is
getting a much-needed service at Off Beat Bikes. Rosie could probably do
with one herself, but she says she has never felt better. I received
this short message from Rosie. Regards James
Well, I'm in Fort William, very friendly town, and the largest town I
have run to so far in Bonny Scotland. ICEBIRD is having fabulous tender
loving care at OFF BEAT BIKES. She has been through a hard winter,
including those big storms in Iceland.. She has never once let me down,
but it's paybacktime!! She's having new tyres and everything is being
thorough checked out. I am indebted to Rob Reid for much kind support...
Love, Rosiex
4th of July 2008. Hi everyone, Rosie and Me would like to wish
everyone in America a happy 4th of July celebration. We're not sore
losers, lol. Rosie received so much kindness and generosity from so many
people in America, thank you all so much. Rosie was saying today that he
thinks all the time about those she has met and the kindnesses she has
received. She wanted me to mention how the memory The Faroe Islands,
Iceland, Greenland are so near. Rosie particularly wanted me to mention
Thorgeir from Iceland who helped her so much when she broke her ribs.
The pictures are Me
Rosie and Catherine Addison, having a picnic a few days after Rosie arrived back when she was
out on the road again. The second is of Non from Drumbeg, who is a
lovely warm hearted lady who has been following Rosie progress and
speaking with her over the years. Regards James
26th of June 2008. Hi I received lovely e-mail from Gillian
McPherson. Who also sent me these photos. These are the first I have
been sent from people spotting Rosie on the road and I absolutely love
to receive them, please keep em coming. Regards James
Hi James
My name is Gillian McPherson.
Rosie called at our door for some water on Sunday morning and she
came in and had a coffee with us. She fell in love with our Labradooddle,
Murphy! (And he with her!)
Today I took my mother to the dentist in Lairg and we noticed Rosie
parked up in a quarry just south of Altnaharra. On the way home she was
still there so we stopped and checked to see she was OK, she was busy
writing up her stories. We chatted for a while and I took some pictures
on my phone of her which I have attached to this email for you. These
pictures were take at 2.30 pm. today.
Rosie has my mother's name and address, mine also. She has said
she'll be back to see us!
I will be keeping an eye on her progress! She is an amazing lady!
Truly Special in every way. I feel privileged to meet her!
Kind Regards
Gillian
24 of June 2008. Hi here are some of the
photos from Rosie's arrival at Scrabster at the very North of Scotland.
There are more pictures to follow. This is not the full update I just
want to get some photos up on the web site. But there are two people I
would particularly like to thank. The first is Catherine Addison a very
good friend of Rosie and myself, who has helped Rosie enormously and he
was very kind to me. Also I would like to thank Geoff Hall who has been
sending Rosie vital equipment to all round the world for the last five
years. And also helped me to get up to Scotland to welcome Rosie. More
to follow shortly. Regards James
First sight of Rosie as he runs off the
Ferry.
Please click June archive for more.
Many thanks James.
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