The Zeal family from Nailsworth—Tara, Matt, their daughter Sophia, and their dog Orla—are approaching the final miles of an extraordinary 1,200-mile walk from John O’Groats to Land’s End. This journey is a heartfelt tribute to their beloved daughter and sister, Amelie, who passed away aged 15 after a brief battle with a brain tumour.
Amelie’s diagnosis came just months before her death in July. Inspired by Amelie’s adventurous spirit and resilience, the family embarked on this challenging trek shortly after her funeral. Each family member has taken turns walking through the changing seasons—from the long, warm days of a Scottish summer to the crisp, silvery light of a Cornish winter.
They have already raised over £23,000 to support brain cancer research through Abbie’s Army and aid care at Acorns Children’s Hospice, both of which were deeply meaningful to Amelie and her family.
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Matt Zeal shared a poignant letter reflecting on their journey, grief, and the importance of their chosen charities:
“Dear friends,
As we near the end of this walk, just four days from Land’s End, we are grateful for the opportunity to honour Amelie by raising funds for Abbie’s Army, focusing on brain cancer research, and Acorns Children’s Hospice, which provided comfort during her final days.
We started this journey less than two weeks after saying goodbye to Amelie, carrying the weight of fresh grief with us. Over the past five months, our sadness has become more familiar but still deeply intense.
Amelie loved watching ‘Race Across the World’ with her mum and dreamed of adventure. She first saw this challenge on TikTok and wanted to attempt it herself someday. At 15, she was full of life, strength, and joy—qualities that have inspired every step we take.
Walking has been our way to keep breathing when life felt unbearable. It has brought us healing through the beauty of nature and kindness from strangers. We’ve been reminded how precious life is and how often we forget to appreciate it amidst everyday worries.
Before she passed, Amelie asked, ‘What’s the point?’—a question still hard to answer. For now, we strive to spread kindness instead of fear and to cherish each moment.
If you feel moved, please consider donating. But above all, take a moment to remember how precious life truly is. If we all do, the world can become a kinder, better place.
Matt Zeal”