Heat forces 'Broken Hiker' Carolyn to pause marathon challenge – but she’s back on the trail

Carolyn Smith, known to many as the “Broken Hiker”, had planned to complete the walk from Donna Nook to Skegness on Saturday alongside Harry from Injury and Sports Therapy, raising money for Annabelle’s Challenge and the RNLI.

However, after taking on part of the route, Carolyn made the decision to stop and continue the challenge on Monday when conditions were safer.

Posting on Sunday, she said: “Part two is happening Monday.

“I’ve decided it’s too hot today to complete the walk so I’m doing it on Monday instead.

“I’ll be setting off around 8am from Anderby Creek to finish off the charity walk.

“I’ll post updates like I did yesterday along the way and I’ll reach the finish line when I reach the finish line.

“Thank you everyone for all your support.”

The challenge is particularly special for Carolyn, who turned 40 this year and wanted to mark the milestone by returning to major fundraising events after time away due to ill health.

Living with vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (vEDS), a rare and life-threatening connective tissue disorder, Carolyn has previously completed incredible paddleboard challenges, including 32 miles in a single day.

She said: “I wanted to do another big fundraiser after a few years off doing big stuff due to ill health.

“I’ve stand-up paddle boarded 32 miles in a day quite a few times and now I’m stepping it up by walking a marathon.”

She is raising funds for Annabelle’s Challenge, the UK’s leading charity supporting people and families affected by vascular EDS, as well as the RNLI – a cause close to the heart of the coastal community.

Despite the setback caused by the weather, Carolyn’s determination remains as strong as ever as she prepares to complete the final miles of her challenge.

Support Carolyn via her Fundraising for Annabelle’s Challenge GoFundMe page at .https://www.justgiving.com