Munge Wachira set out on an extraordinary mission to shatter barriers by embarking on a grueling walk that lasted over thirteen hours, spanning from Kiambu to Murang’a.
Undaunted by the daunting challenges of exhaustion, hunger, navigating through fast-moving vehicles, and encountering unsympathetic faces along the way, Wachira experienced immense relief upon completing his walkathon on Friday, June 23.
Covering a distance of 65 kilometers from Kahawa Wendani in Kiambu to Maragua in Murang’a County, the courageous 46-year-old sparked a powerful wave of inspiration among countless individuals battling with diabetes.
His valiant endeavor aimed to raise awareness about this chronic condition, offering a ray of hope to the millions of people who struggle with it on a daily basis.
With immense pride, he declared, “‘Mungethewalker’ completes the 65 Kilometer Walkathon from Kahawa Wendani in Kiambu County, Kenya to Maragua in Muranga County, Kenya, covering a total of 83,830 Steps, 13 Hours 10 Minutes, and 3,332 Kcal,” underscoring how he had pushed himself beyond his perceived limits.
Beginning his journey from his Kahawa Wendani residence on Thursday, June 22, at around 4 am, Wachira armed himself with a headlamp, mindful of the need for caution throughout the walk. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a brisk pace and ensuring ample supplies for the arduous trek.
Wachira shared news of his walkathon with friends, who commended his courage in raising awareness about diabetes and prayed for his safety on the road.
During the journey, he took breaks to nourish himself and sought refuge from the occasional downpours. Nevertheless, his determination remained unyielding, as he remained firmly focused on reaching the finish line.
Wachira disclosed that he would return home by car before embarking on another expedition to Othaya in Nyeri, paying tribute to his late grandfather, who had succumbed to diabetes.
Notably, Wachira himself is a triumphant warrior against diabetes, having overcome the disease in 2019. His noble mission is to extend a helping hand to others afflicted by the same condition.
The survivor advised fellow patients to consider implementing dietary changes and engaging in daily exercise, under the guidance and supervision of their doctors.
“My mission, vision, and goals are well defined. I am strong, fighting diligently, and committed to reversing diabetes,” he affirmed.
At the age of 25, Wachira was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, which ignited his journey towards a healthier life. Expressing gratitude, he said, “I have battled diabetes for most of my life. It’s hard to believe that I no longer wake up reaching for a glass of water to take my medication.” Wachira, a trainer and motivational speaker, deeply appreciated his progress.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), diabetes currently affects 3.3 percent of the population in Kenya, with projections suggesting a potential increase to 4.5 percent by 2025.
Diabetes disrupts the body’s response to insulin, leading to abnormal carbohydrate metabolism and elevated blood glucose levels.
