HMRI Chairman Glenn Turner made a triumphant entry into Rome today to successfully complete his 3D Healing Walk along the historic Via Francigena pilgrim trail from Canterbury in England, through France, Switzerland and Italy.

HMRI Chairman Glenn Turner made a triumphant entry into Rome today to successfully complete his 3D Healing Walk along the historic Via Francigena pilgrim trail from Canterbury in England, through France, Switzerland and Italy.

He arrived in Rome weary but otherwise well after completing the 2000km solo trek three weeks ahead of schedule. He has walked up to 50km a day in recent weeks, through breathtaking mountain passes and historic streetscapes.

Mr Turner undertook the quest to increase awareness for Diabetes, Dementia and Depression, the three rampant diseases of Western society. Before leaving he had MRI and EEG (Electroencephalography) tests as cognitions benchmarks – these will be retested upon his return.

The 66-year-old has blogged about his experiences walking across Europe and sampling its culinary delights en route.

He has raised $75,000 to support research into the “3Ds” and the donation page remains open for those keen to contribute.

“I feel privileged to have been able to do this walk and, despite my travails and complaints, a deepening sense of accomplishment – not from the achievement of completing the walk but from raising awareness of the benefits of, and my belief we will find a novel translational aspect to, medical research in the 3D.

“For those who may have been waiting to see whether I finished, it would be wonderful if they can now show their support,” Mr Turner said.
HMRI Director Professor Michael Nilsson commended Mr Turner today on his inspirational effort.

“The mental benefits of exercise are well known but this was an enormous challenge, both physically and mentally, and for Glenn to complete it ahead of time shows true character,” Professor Nilsson said.

“For him personally, and for the important research that his journey will help fund, it is a wonderful achievement, and on behalf of all HMRI researchers and staff I congratulate him.”

All costs for the walk were paid for by Mr Turner.