Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
July 14
Today I ran through Mobile, Alabama, and on into Pascagoula in Mis-
sissippi. I'm already missing Brooke and Dillon. I kissed them goodbye
this morning, we said our last farewells, and I ran off into the darkness.
Without them, I feel so alone.
Tomorrow I'll be in New Orleans. There are media commitments
for me there, but I've just been advised that the arrangement that was
set up for me to run with the mayor and meet some of the people who
have reconstructed the city after Hurricane Katrina has been can-
celled. We're not sure why yet. New Orleans is 420 kilometres out of
my way, so I could have saved myself the extra distance had I known
earlier. It's very disappointing.
We've decided that our major priority for the next few weeks is to
connect with the Australian media and try to get coverage back home
so people there will donate. I've spoken to Robert Tickner, chief execu-
tive of the Australian Red Cross, and told him I hope the fundraising
gets into swing. We both believe there will be a rush of donations when
I'm nearing the South Pole and people see that I will achieve this quest,
but we need the money now. Robert told me the Red Cross is trying
to establish a water project in Timor to give clean water and sanitary
conditions to a village there, as well as a school and a medical centre.
If I can somehow drum up the money, it will make it easier for the Red
Cross to get started. I don't know how I will find the funds, but I'll give
it my best.
My right leg—the one with the crook knee—is giving me hell. The
shooting pains have not gone away. I'll just have to ignore it until I
can track down a proper physiotherapist or masseur who can work out
what the problem is and rectify it.
I have been receiving emails from Eric Philips, my North Pole
guide, about his guiding me through Antarctica. He says if he's going to
join me he'll be requiring his money soon, by August 1. I will definitely
need him, or another guide who is as good. Whoever leads me through
Antarctica will cost a heap of money. I have to find it somehow. Eric's
being in contact shows that he has faith that I am going to make it to
the South Pole. That makes two of us. Still, I'm a bit disappointed with
his attitude that this is purely a business transaction. He has to cover
his costs and make a living—I understand that.
