Two Western teachers finished their trek across Vietnam to raise funds to help children

“I have mixed emotions. I felt relieved and emotional about myself, but on the other hand, I still didn't believe this was true. I'm exhausted because I've had very few days off in the past 3 months," Mr. Sean Down expressed.

Mr. Sean Down said that, a few years ago, he had a serious motorbike accident that required surgery. He now has 2 pieces of metal and 12 screws to hold his ankle together. The man also suffered from arthritis. At the beginning of the journey, he was not used to walking all day, so his ankles were always sore. In the north, it was cold and rainy, and he got pneumonia. However, over time, he gradually adapted and miraculously overcame all obstacles.

The two have raised about 35.000 USD from this journey and are expected to raise the fundraising level to a total of 200.000 USD.

“We always think that no matter what difficulties we face, they cannot be compared to what children without education face. When you think like that, everything will become easy to continue. Both know they are doing it for a noble purpose," he said.

The Irish teacher said that Vietnamese people are incredibly likable, friendly and kind. On the way, the couple was offered food, drinks, and even offered rides. Of course, they thanked them but said no because they were walking to raise money for charity.

“When they heard we were doing the fundraising walk, we stayed in their hotel for free. I have met many people around the world, but Vietnamese people have a very sincere loveliness," he expressed.

During the special trip, the 44-year-old man commented that the scenery in Vietnam is unlike anywhere else. Da Lat in their eyes is really beautiful, the people are friendly and funny. In addition, the memories of stopping at Ly Son island also made the two teachers remember forever.

“Jake and I are vegans. We were treated to a delicious meal and taken around by the nuns at a temple on the island. It was a magical and perfect moment. The difficulties encountered during the journey will turn me into a more patient teacher," he shared.

As for Jake Norris, it was "an emotional rollercoaster". Excitement, joy and sadness... are what he experienced after this special walk.

This is also a big challenge for the guy. Before starting, Jake Norris injured his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and meniscus in his left knee. The doctor also worried about his inability to walk and reminded him to limit his activities for about 9 - 12 months.

“I was so worried I would go a day or two then not be able to continue. But I did it and it was fine. For me, there weren't many challenges in this journey except walking from Nha Trang to Da Lat because the pass was quite steep," Jake Norris shared.

Jake Norris was born in Western Australia and had access to advanced education since he was a child. He wants to contribute and help children in difficulty. Therefore, during 7 years in Vietnam, he chose to become a kindergarten and elementary school teacher to interact with and bring interesting lessons to children.

“Vietnam has given me many things from work, home and united community. Therefore, what I want to share is to help Vietnamese children as well as the people to share those blessings," the young man confided.

The two plan to have a charity project walking and cycling around Europe. That's just the idea, next time they will rest and regain strength. They will visit Ho Chi Minh City for about a week and enjoy vegetarian cuisine here.

Mr. Rodney Stone, founder of the Thanh Loc charity project, was very impressed by the achievements of Mr. Jake and Mr. Sean. The money they raise will go to the organization's activities in Kien Giang and Hau Giang provinces.

“I also joined them for 3 days. I walk every day so my health is quite good. They walked up to 30 km every day, carrying 2 large backpacks on their backs, but keeping up was not easy for me. There were even days when they traveled for 9-10 hours, two people traveling together. I regularly monitor and encourage them and contact some acquaintances to support the couple as much as possible," Mr. Rodney commented.