An Andover woman is just days away from completing a historic trek across Europe after spending almost a year walking from the Arctic Circle to the Mediterranean to raise awareness of suicide prevention.
Kit Birks is entering the final stages of her ambitious Stride Beyond Silence challenge, which has seen her travel nearly 5,000 miles (8,000km) on foot from Nordkapp in Norway to the Greek island of Gavdos – Europe’s southernmost point.
The challenge, which began on 7 July last year, is believed to be the first continuous solo trek of its kind. Carrying everything she needed on her back, Kit has crossed ten countries, navigated Arctic wilderness, forests, mountains and coastal trails, all while documenting the journey and raising funds for mental health charities.
The extraordinary expedition was inspired by Kit’s own experiences with mental illness, addiction and recovery.
Before setting off, she told Andover Radio’s Ben Tuffin that she wanted to “make some noise” around suicide prevention and turn years of mental health advocacy into meaningful action.
“I got to the point where I felt I wanted to do something big,” she said. “Advocacy is important, but I wanted to create real conversations around suicide prevention and support for those struggling with their mental health.”
Kit’s journey has been shaped by her own battles with depression, insomnia, eating disorders and addiction. After spending more than a decade struggling with substance misuse, she reached a point where she no longer wanted to live.
Now approaching four years sober, she has used her experiences to inspire others and demonstrate that recovery is possible.
“I made a vow that I wasn’t going to let my past dictate who I am,” she said. “Instead, I wanted to use it to help other people not feel the way I did for such a long time.”
The challenge has tested her physically and mentally. During the harsh Scandinavian winter, Kit spent days completely off-grid, carrying more than 20kg of equipment while trekking through remote areas without shops, running water or mobile phone signal.
She has also faced difficult and sometimes frightening situations during her journey, but says the overwhelming memory she will take away is the kindness of strangers.
“A real highlight has been hearing people’s stories and seeing how willing people are to support each other,” she said.
Throughout the trek, Kit has carried a memorial flag bearing the names of people lost to suicide, ensuring their memories have travelled with her every step of the way.
She is raising funds for two charities close to her heart: the Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM), which provides suicide prevention support and helplines, and James’ Place, which delivers life-saving treatment to men experiencing mental health crises.
The challenge has captured attention across social media, where Kit shares poetry and mental health content, and has attracted support from thousands of followers around the world. Among those cheering her on is Prince William, who publicly praised her efforts on social media.
So far, the fundraiser has raised more than £65,500, putting Kit well on the way towards her £100,000 target. You can donate here.
With the finish line now within sight, Kit hopes her journey will leave a lasting message for anyone facing their own struggles.
“As hard, dark and gruelling as life can get, it always changes,” she said. “We’re never in a state of permanence. If you can find it in yourself to keep going, one small step at a time, you’ll surprise yourself.
“There is so much good left out there. Please keep going. It gets beautiful again.”
To support Kit’s fundraising efforts or follow the final stages of her journey, visit kitbirks.com or search for @kitbirks on social media.