River Stour challenge raised over £4,000 for leprosy centre

Teresa Yonge, 62, of Dedham Road, Langham, and her daughter’s partner James Perkins, 30, finished their mission in 15 days to raise the money for the Mutemwa Leprosy Care Centre, in Zimbabwe.

So far they raised £4,042.

The duo completed their journey by paddling the final 11.6 miles from Nayland to Cattawade, where they were cheered on by family members as they reached the finish line.

Completed - Teresa and James completed their fundraising efforts in 15 days

Teresa said they had both enjoyed their river tour adventure.

She added: “This 134-mile paddle has been an incredible journey and one quite different from going solo and that, in itself, is an indication it is important we are, or learn to be flexible and adjust to the changes that we go through in life, including the pandemic.

“It is a lesson we do need each other and just like the saying goes: ‘No man (or woman) is an island’.

“This trip has taught me so much about myself and my failings.

“It is easier to go solo, but pairing up on this trip has helped me to look at myself and my ego, or non-self, and for that I am eternally grateful to James.

Help - The money raised will go towards buying water tanks for a Leprosy Centre in Zimbabwe

“We have gone through it all and have come out the other end stronger in our friendship and respectful of each other.

“I am feeling wiser, humbled, more self-aware and will always be grateful to James.”

James said he enjoyed putting his energy into the sponsored paddle which has raised money for water tanks in Mutemwa.

He added: “It will ensure they have access to water, even during times of drought.

"When navigating the River Stour, it is like the journey of life.

"We are all connected and when we are on the river, we share in that journey with all the creatures - the fish in the water jumping and splashing, the birds in the trees calling out through the sky, and the herds of cattle on the banks enjoying the fresh green grass.

"There is a continuous movement of life and we all share in the river’s beauty and never ending journey out to the ocean.”

The mum-of-three also praised her late uncle John Bradburne, who lived in Mutemwa for the last ten years of his life, caring for the community there, saying he’s been a true example and shining light of love through his faith and love of God.

A memorial society has been set up in his name, called the John Bradburne Memorial Society, which supports calls for him to become a saint for his compassionate works.