I have just read through the section on the boards about peoples experiences with the walk (through tears of course).
I am wondering now about closing ceremonies and what exactly happens at that time.
I read that when you cross the finish line you get a shirt, blue for walkers, pink if you're a walker and survivor. I also read that there is a survivor walk at the closing ceremonies.
I am a survivor and no one has mentioned it to me, so I am wonder what exactly it is. Do they put all of us survivors together and have us walk in front of everyone? (If so I'm sure I'll be bawling the whole time) I'm just a little confused.
Oh, and one other thing. If you walk the first day and you get crazy blisters on your feet can you use crutches the second day/have you seen anyone do this? I think you can rent them from shoppers or somewhere but I'm not sure.
Thanks :) Sara
-- Edited by SaraP on Friday 28th of May 2010 03:43:37 PM
I think when you signed up you likely checked off a box to indicate that you're a survivor, that's how they know what colour t-shirt. There is a survivor walk, contact the coaches to ask about it. We are all bawling during the ceremonies, whether we're survivors or any other walker. It's very emotional!
I'm pretty sure you won't be allowed to use crutches :) Foot care to avoid blisters is really important. Moleskin, Bodyglide, double layer anti-blister socks Running Room socks are a must. And most importantly, runners that have been properly fitted for your foot. The Running Room can help you with that. Make sure you have 2 pairs of shoes that you have been walking in for a while. New shoes the weekend of the walk are a big no, no!
Check the training section, there were lots of great posts last year about getting ready, training and foot care.
closing ceremonies are AMAZING, when you get to the finish line you will be directed where to go and what to do , and you wil get your shirt, The walkers, surviors and crew members all get different colour victory shirts and then they are marched into closing ceremonies in those same groups, as for the crutches,, try not to need them, and if things are not good on day two, medical team can asist, and there are always sweep vehicles to pick you up if you cannot walk any further,
Don't stress over the logitics of the event, it is very well organized, and you as a walker do not need to know, crew and staff will tell you everything you need to know. You just need to do your best, and be very proud of yourself for doing this event!
Closing ceremonies are an emotional mess - have as many family and friends there that you want to congratulate you as you cross the line and share in the experience!!
Have rough feet! the more build of of dead skin on your heels and soles the better you'll fare. I didn't have a pedicure for the 3 months leading up to last years walk and walked away with only 2 small blisters on my pinky toes!
Either way - just enjoy the journey! Talk to as many people around you as you can! Be proud of the accomplishment of taking part in such a rewarding experience. Take advantage of sweep vehicles so that you can cross the finish line on day two of your own power!!!
This will be my 3rd year doing the walk. I am a survivor and it is very emotional at the end. I have walked and gotten blisters. You can always use the sweep van if you are feeling overwhelmed. The pedicure and sock thing are very true. But I'm sure with some moleskin and lots of conversation you will finish your walk smiling but tired as we all do. The closing ceremonies are the most emotional thing I have even been involved in. All survivors are put together and yes we all wear the same t-shirt. You all walk in together,holding hands,crying and laughing at the same time.I am from Cambridge and if you want to contact me feel free. I'll see you in a few months. Keep training and Good Luck
Best thing I invested in for the walk was double layer socks - I buy mine at the Running Room. I've done the walk for 2 years and only ended up with 1 or two very small blisters. Good Luck!
