Southampton's Mike Larcombe, affectionately known as 'Mikey Sheen', is walking 2200km across Croatia for a worthy cause.
Undertaking this incredible journey along the Long Distance Trail, Mike aims to raise funds for nystagmus research. Nystagmus, categorised by involuntary eye movements which affect depth perception and focus, impacts one in one thousand people.
This research is being carried out at the University of Southampton where world-leading specialists, Drs Jay Self and Helena Lee, are committed to overcoming this prevalent disorder.
Their goal is not only to explore a potential cure but to speed up diagnosis and identify treatment options which could transform the lives of those affected. Although born with the condition himself, Mike refuses to let it inhibit his adventurous spirit.
For the past six years, he has ventured on numerous challenges, including walking the full length of New Zealand's north and south islands, cycling around Tasmania, and navigating the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail.
His present undertaking on the Croatian Trail involves hiking 2200km within a challenging 90-day timeline, 10 days less than the recommended time.
His inspiration comes from his six-year-old nephew, Archie, who also lives with congenital nystagmus. Mike's determination has already garnered over £1000 for each charity, with a final target of £5000 each.
Followers are encouraged to track his journey through Instagram (@walk_for_wiggly_eyes) and his website www.walkforwigglyeyes.com, where further donations can be made.
Jay said: "We’re working on understanding the cause of Nystagmus in children, through genetic testing and the development of diagnostic tools, as well investigating treatments for the condition. We have already initiated a study using the ‘RETeval’ diagnostic tool and are currently working on an app specifically for children with nystagmus symptoms."
Mike has never let his visual impairment impact his thirst for adventure. In the last six years he has walked the full length of both the north and south islands of New Zealand, cycled around Tasmania, as well as the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail – all fundraising for Gift of Sight and Nystagmus Network.
His latest challenge sees him hiking the full 2200 km Croatian Long Distance Trail in less than 90 days – the recommended time is at least 100 days. His inspiration for the walk is his nephew, Archie, who is now six years old and also has congenital nystagmus.
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