After walking more than 10,000 miles across the United States, mental health advocate Kyndal Ray Edwards has reached New Bern on his cross-country journey to raise awareness about mental health and addiction recovery.
Edwards walked 22 miles Friday from Havelock to New Bern, ending the day at The Ziegler Hotel. He said the latest leg of the journey brought his total distance traveled to 10,788 miles.
As summer temperatures continue to climb across Eastern North Carolina, Edwards said even experienced long-distance walkers must take precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses.
Cross-country walk for mental health reaches New Bern
He said heat exhaustion, prolonged sun exposure and the lack of shade along highways are some of the biggest challenges he faces while walking.
“Especially when you’re not used to it, it’s also good to know your body,” Edwards said. “If you’re tired, don’t feel like you have to push. Don’t go hard because you’re trying to prove something.”
Cross-country walk for mental health reaches New Bern
Edwards encouraged anyone spending extended time outdoors to listen to their body, stay hydrated and avoid pushing beyond their limits in the heat.
He plans to remain in New Bern for a couple of days before continuing north toward Greenville and eventually Virginia as his journey continues.