At nearly seventy years of age, Mr. Edwin Chan is considered an “elderly person” and can ride the public transportation around Hong Kong for a mere HK$2.00.

Beginning on May 17th, Edwin, along with twelve other friends, will hike a 2,168 kilometre trail from Yunnan Province to Tibet.

It will take 117 days.

What is motivating Edwin to forgo the comfortable life in Hong Kong for nearly four months to embark on this crazy journey?

Edwin is fulfilling a dream he had as a young man as well as highlighting the benefits of staying active at an older age.  He’s also using this trip to raise funds for HOPE worldwide’s Elderly Fall Prevention Programme.

“Like the average Joe, I joined the workforce after finishing school.  I set all my wild and crazy dreams aside and focused on building my career and family.  Upon retirement, I realised that while walking on the treadmill of life, I had lost myself and forgotten my dream of exploring the world.  It was time to get off the treadmill and get on the trail.

I’ve asked many people: ‘What are you toiling for?’  The response was always the same: Make money, make a living, provide for the family.  Some people I know tried forsaking these concerns and pursued their dreams.  But every single time, I saw them bowing to the pressure of reality.  Dreams are for dreamers.  One has to live in reality.

I have also seen others who decided to pursue their dreams after accomplishing life-long goals.  But they had to give them up because of poor health.  Without a healthy mind and body, you can’t even enjoy what you have accomplished.” 

Five years ago, Edwin went into the hospital for a minor procedure.  During the operation, the doctors found that he had an arrhythmia and put him on life-long medication.  Despite this unexpected set back, Edwin wouldn’t give up on his dream of exploring the world.  He was also inspired by his friend, experienced diving coach Steve Chan, completing the six-month long, 3,500 kilometre Appalachian Trail hike in 2016.  Edwin has been working hard to stay fit and is now in better health than ever.  He believes he’s ready for the Tibet Walk challenge.

Edwin expects to be challenged physically and mentally during the 117 days.  His feet as well as his mind will be constantly moving.  His fitness and perseverance will be tested as he reflects on whether he is truly living or simply existing.

Edwin also wants to bring the message of caring for the elderly in our communities.  He will be fundraising for our Elderly Fall Prevention Programme.  Because one day, we will all get to that stage in life.  

Support Edwin's Tibet Walk by clicking here to donate.

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The route for the Tibet Walk extends 1,930 kilometres, 39 of which are situated at 4,000 metres above sea level, and 239 of which sit at 3,000-4,000 metres above the sea.  Along the way, you will see snow-capped mountains and cliffs.  You will go through tunnels and bridges.  You will experience extreme cold and thin air.  Sceneries you will take in include the famous Lijiang and Shangri-La.  The route is full of adventure, beauty and amazing sights.