Matt Miles, a resident of Cheltenham, has completed the iconic Camino de Santiago trail in Spain, trekking nearly 900 kilometers in memory of his late wife, Katy, a former Gloucestershire police detective sergeant. This remarkable journey was part of his ‘Miles for Katy’ fundraising campaign to support Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice, where Katy received compassionate care during her final weeks.
So far, Matt has raised over £9,000, edging closer to his targeted goal of £10,481 — a number symbolically inspired by Katy’s police collar number, 1481. The outpouring of support has been heartening, reflecting Katy’s lasting impact on the community and those she touched throughout her life.
Katy was diagnosed with cancer in 2016, and the hospice played a vital role during the end of her life. Matt recalls the solace the family found there: “Katy spent her final three weeks at Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice. Alongside her sister Lucy and myself, we received unwavering care and support that made those difficult days more bearable.”
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Though Matt’s pilgrimage was a solitary undertaking, he carried Katy’s spirit with him every step of the way. Honoring a Camino tradition of leaving a personal memento at the halfway point, Matt placed one of Katy’s earrings on the trail, symbolically leaving a part of her on the path she had always wished to walk.
The trail’s diverse landscape—from rugged mountains to serene coastal paths—posed significant challenges, yet Matt found inspiration in the kindness of supporters and the camaraderie of fellow pilgrims. One particularly tough day was brightened by a generous £500 donation received unexpectedly, reaffirming the power of community support.
Along the journey, Matt met another pilgrim who had also lost his wife, providing a poignant moment of shared grief and understanding. These connections underscored the healing nature of the pilgrimage.
Reflecting on Katy’s perspective, Matt said, “She would be immensely proud of me for completing the Camino. Her love for connecting with people means she would have been chatting away to everyone we met on the trail.”
This pilgrimage marks a significant stride in Matt’s ongoing fundraising efforts, which include the upcoming London Marathon. Next on his agenda is the ‘Big Dip’ at Cheltenham Lido—a chilly swim event on 7 December—promising to be another compelling challenge for Matt.
The Camino de Santiago, or the Way of St. James, has been a pilgrimage route since the 9th century, attracting thousands of walkers each year. Its modern resurgence owes much to cultural influences like the 2010 film “The Way” and a growing desire for meaningful travel experiences post-pandemic.
Matt’s dedication to honoring Katy’s memory continues to inspire, proving the profound connection between love, remembrance, and the enduring spirit of the Camino.