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Coast-to-Coast Walk Fights Loneliness Epidemic
5 Nov
Summary
- A 72-year-old woman is walking across the country to address loneliness.
- Loneliness risks are comparable to smoking up to 15 cigarettes daily.
- The mission culminates in a National Day of Connection event.
A 72-year-old activist is traversing the United States on a 51-day journey to combat widespread loneliness. This ambitious walk began in Santa Monica, California, and is scheduled to conclude in New York City on November 12th, passing through 17 states along the way. The initiative, founded by Lucy Rose, focuses on listening to people's stories and highlighting the pervasive issue of loneliness.
Experts emphasize the critical health impacts of loneliness, with the CDC noting risks comparable to smoking up to 15 cigarettes daily. The Cost of Loneliness Project founder, Rose, describes loneliness not just as being alone, but as a profound sense of not belonging. Her daily trek involves approximately 40,000 steps, covering 12 to 15 miles, fostering connections one encounter at a time.
Concluding this extensive journey, a National Day of Connection is planned for November 12th. Participants nationwide are invited to dedicate at least 12 minutes to connecting with someone they care about, promoting meaningful relationships and alleviating feelings of isolation.
