Michael McFarland Campbell

Stepping Forward: A September of Heart and Hope

As September turns the page, I’m pausing to say a heartfelt thank you.

Together, we walked 336,163 steps—over 10% more than the original 300,000-step target for the Irish Heart Foundation. That’s not just a number. It’s a rhythm of resilience, a pulse of purpose, and a testament to what community can do when it moves together.

Thanks to the generosity of friends and supporters, €264 was raised in sponsorship. Every euro is a vote for heart health, for advocacy, and for the quiet heroes who walk, run, and roll toward better futures.

Not every day hit the 10,000-step mark. Some days were gentler, some were fierce. There was a hospital stay. There were thrice-weekly dialysis sessions. But there were also days that soared—where the steps flew past the target, carried by determination, music, and maybe a bit of stubborn joy.

This challenge wasn’t just about fitness. It was about showing that even in constraint, we can move. Even in dependence, we can choose. Even in illness, we can advocate.

To everyone who sponsored, cheered, or simply asked how the walking was going—thank you. You helped turn a personal challenge into a communal act of care.

Here’s to every step that made a difference. And here’s to the ones still to come.

With gratitude and heart, Michael

Migraine Tried, But I’m Still Miles Ahead – Week 2 Recap

Week two is done and dusted, and it’s been a strong one overall. I clocked up some serious mileage early in the week, with standout days like Thursday hitting over 21,000 steps and nearly 15.2 km. Most days were comfortably above the 10k target, and even Friday and Wednesday pushed past 17,000 steps each.

Saturday was a bit more relaxed, but still solid with over 11,000 steps. Then came Sunday—just 2.5 km and 3,436 steps. Not ideal, but I was hit with a migraine and had to take it easy. That said, I’m not too worried. Thanks to the extra effort earlier in the week, I’m still ahead of the curve and feeling good about the progress.

This challenge is proving to be more than just a numbers game. It’s about consistency, pacing, and knowing when to push and when to pause. Week two reminded me that setbacks happen, but they don’t define the journey.

Here’s to a strong week three—hopefully migraine-free and full of fresh air and forward steps. Let’s keep walking toward a healthier heart, one day at a time 💓👟

Correction: Distances Logged in Miles, Not Kilometres!

I just discovered my tracker was set to miles instead of kilometres, so the distances I covered were greater than I first thought. Here’s the corrected breakdown for each day:

Corrected Daily Distances

• Monday: 12,960 steps — 9.2 km, 5.7 miles

• Tuesday: 22,294 steps — 15.2 km, 9.4 miles

• Wednesday: 17,028 steps — 11.7 km, 7.3 miles

• Thursday: 8,702 steps (spent the evening and overnight in the Emergency Department) — 6.4 km, 4.0 miles

• Friday: 12,336 steps — 8.6 km, 5.3 miles

• Saturday: 10,790 steps — 7.6 km, 4.7 miles

• Sunday: 11,641 steps — 8.1 km, 5.0 miles

• Monday: 14,974 steps — 10.1 km, 6.3 miles

That means over eight days I actually covered 76.9 km (47.7 miles) walking for the Irish Heart Foundation.

Thanks for bearing with the mix-up and for all your support!

🏃‍♂️💓 Sunday Steps for Heart Health!

Today I clocked 11,566 steps—just over 5 miles—walking along the serene banks of the Grand Canal and crossing the beautiful River Barrow. Every stride was for the Irish Heart Foundation, helping raise awareness and support for heart health across Ireland.

Grateful for the fresh air, the peaceful views, and the chance to move with purpose. Let’s keep those hearts beating strong—one step at a time! 🇮🇪❤️

#IrishHeartFoundation #StepByStep #HeartHealth #GrandCanal #RiverBarrow #FundraiserWalk

🚶‍♂️Stepping Up for Heart Health: My Week of Walking for the Irish Heart Foundation

This week, I laced up my shoes with purpose—not just for fitness, but for a cause close to my heart. I’ve committed to walking 10,000 steps a day to raise funds for the Irish Heart Foundation, and let me tell you, it’s been a week of determination, surprises, and a few sore muscles.

📅 The Week in Steps

• Monday: 12,960 steps — off to a strong start!

• Tuesday: 22,294 steps — I must’ve been part mountain goat that day.

• Wednesday: 17,028 steps — steady and strong.

• Thursday: 8,702 steps — a curveball. I spent the evening and overnight in the Emergency Department, but still managed to get close to the goal.

• Friday: 12,336 steps — bouncing back with energy.

• Saturday: 10,790 steps — mission accomplished.

Despite Thursday’s unexpected hospital visit, I stayed committed. That day reminded me why this fundraiser matters so much. Heart health isn’t just a statistic—it’s personal, unpredictable, and worth fighting for.

❤️ Why I’m Doing This

The Irish Heart Foundation works tirelessly to prevent heart disease and stroke, support patients, and promote healthier lifestyles across Ireland. Every step I take is a small tribute to their mission—and a reminder that movement is medicine.

🙌 How You Can Help

If you’d like to support this journey, consider donating to the Irish Heart Foundation or simply joining me in the challenge. Whether it’s 1,000 steps or 10,000, every step counts.

Thanks for following along. I’ll keep walking, one step at a time—for my heart, for your heart, and for all the hearts that need a little extra care.