13 June 2025
Ruth Herbert saw the devastation caused by Israel’s illegal bombardment of Gaza, and thought to herself, how could she help?
“The idea for my “Big Trek 4 Palestine” came about in response to a growing feeling that I needed to do more. I went to rallies & demonstrations, I signed petitions, I shared and posted online, I emailed my MP. But none of it felt enough.”
Ruth’s walk started when she left her home in Arnside, South Cumbria on 2nd May, and will end later this year in Turkey. Ruth will be passing through 11 countries, and her mission is not only to fundraise for MAP, but also, as Ruth said, “to raise awareness of what is happening in Gaza, and to help build community at home. I am walking to Turkey – the nearest I can safely get to Gaza.”
Since beginning her journey, Ruth arrived at Trafalgar Square on Sunday 18 May, having already walked 300 miles. By the time she reached Dover on Friday 23 May, she had walked 394 miles in 22 days. By the end of her first week walking in France, she had walked an immense 500 miles. At the time of writing this blog post, Ruth has reached nearly 700 miles and hopes to reach 1000 miles in the next couple weeks.
We were able to sit down with Ruth whilst she passed through London, and she shared with us stories of the incredible people she has met so far, and how great the local community has been in rallying support around her. Ruth said:
“I have been blown away by the support I have received so far. It’s been an amazing experience meeting so many people, from so many different backgrounds, united in their desire to do something to support Palestinians. I’ve been surrounded with kindness and enthusiasm, and I’ve met the most delightful people, and such a mix of people. It’s been a privilege to walk with people. We have talked about so much, including our deep grief about what is happening in Palestine.”
Ruth’s incredible journey has clearly touched the community, as she has raised nearly £17,000 for Medical Aid for Palestinians. Ruth is only 6 weeks into her journey, and we are so excited to follow her progress over the next few months.
If you’d like to show your support for Ruth or meet her along her journey for a chat and walk, you can follow and contact her on her socials here, or donate to her fundraiser here.
As Ruth beautifully said:
“I have always believed in the power of perseverance, and this journey is my way of showing solidarity with the Palestinian people. The work of Medical Aid for Palestinians is more important than ever, and I hope my efforts will help provide the support and resources needed to improve lives and deliver essential medical care.”
Thank you and good luck, Ruth!