Karl Bushby left Hull, England, in 1998, intending to walk 36,000 miles (58,000 km) around the world. His mother, Angela Bushby, eagerly awaits his return in September 2026. Angela, 75, still remembers the day Karl shared his ambitious plan. “I was gobsmacked,” she recalls.
Over nearly three decades, Karl’s journey has seen many challenges. From geopolitical issues to visa problems, progress has often been slowed. Currently, he’s approaching Austria, preparing for his long-awaited reunion with family.
Angela has kept a scrapbook filled with newspaper articles and photographs documenting Karl’s adventures. Since he left, she has only seen him three times, including when he famously became the first Briton to cross the frozen Bering Strait in 2006.
“Every mother worries,” Angela admits, reflecting on sleepless nights and the times she feared for his safety. Karl’s childhood was not without difficulties. Diagnosed with dyslexia at age 13, he struggled in school, often bullied by classmates. “He was called thick and stupid,” Angela recalls. However, once Karl understood his condition, he became determined to succeed.
Statistics show that children with dyslexia have a higher risk of being bullied. However, experts like Dr. Sally Shaywitz, a leading dyslexia researcher, highlight that overcoming these challenges can lead to resilience and creativity. Karl exemplifies this; he learned to adapt and became passionate about reading.
Angela reminisces about her son’s determination. “Once he sets his mind to something, he does it.” Family photographs reveal a young boy confidently climbing trees, a testament to his adventurous spirit.
Despite the struggles and miles traveled, Angela holds onto hope. She’s worried about how Karl will adjust back to life in Hull after so many years on the road. “I don’t think he’ll stay in one place,” she muses, reflecting on his globe-trotting lifestyle.
Karl, in a recent phone conversation, humorously replied to Angela’s expectation of his late arrival. “That’s a truth bomb!” he joked, showcasing their close bond, built over years of distance.
As he nears the end of his journey, Karl’s story resonates with many. It speaks not only to adventure but also to the strength of family, the courage to overcome adversity, and the endless pursuit of dreams. Angela continues to support him and, despite the distance, remains his biggest fan.
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