At a time when life was full of life-altering changes, heightened stress and a build-up of anxiety, Pack Member Francine Edwards found a place of belonging and healing within the 99 Walks community and an intentional walking practice.
Nearly a decade ago, Francine, age 58, began to suffer from severe anxiety and panic attacks, experiencing a racing heart and emotional battle. She discovered that the only way to ease her mind and work her way through her anxiety was walking. “It didn’t matter if it was 3:00 in the morning, I just had to walk. Some nights I would be walking those streets and trails I’d cry with every step,” said Francine. “It was a dark time in my life.”
But as the weeks went by, Francine found her heart beating less quickly. Her anxiety and racing thoughts began to calm and she was suddenly walking with a clearer head. She truly fell in love with the power of walking. Armed with a Fitbit, walking became her life. Until her life dramatically changed just five years ago.
Newly married, Francine moved to her husband’s home in the mountains of North Bend, Washington, a move that forced Francine to leave her beloved job as an activity director working with seniors, a move that left her feeling isolated and alone. “It was a big life change. I had no job, and no friends,” Francine said. “I put on weight, and sat in front of the television all day. I had no focus or interest in much of anything.”
Then in January 2021, Francine discovered 99 Walks. “99 Walks truly changed my life,” said Francine. “It gave me so much more than the monthly bracelet. I can’t explain it fully, but I am not alone anymore.” Reflecting on the support she has received through her Facebook posts and private messages, Francine now knows she has a pack of women who truly see her and are there for her in friendship.
“I needed to be part of something. I needed to be seen, noticed or missed, and I found all of these things with the click of a button. I was now part of the Pack,” said Francine. “A pack of women of every age, shape and color. Women from every corner of the country coming together to motivate and inspire each other. Reading about everyone’s journey, their lives, their struggles with weight, illness or depression—women who have walked their way to health and share so openly—I related to these women. I saw myself.”
Walking for Francine has become her “me” time. Her time to think, call old friends, connect with nature and recharge her batteries or walk away a bad attitude. Some walks are to achieve a goal—hitting hills for endurance, or focusing on speed for weight loss, and some walks she purposely chooses to go slow and just enjoy the moment. “My children and I have had some of our best conversations while out walking,” said Francine. “No TV distractions, no phones. There is something about being outside that makes conversation so much easier.”
And one conversation that she dreams about having is with her mom. “If I could walk anywhere in the world, I would like to go back in time and take a walk down the street with my Mum,” said Francine. “She passed away 2 years ago from Alzheimer’s, and although she was pretty good on her feet, she did not recognize me. But this time she would know who I am.”
On days she struggles, Francine makes her first walk one with her dog, Honey. “I don’t think about distance,” she said. “This walk is for Honey. I don’t walk her in my neighborhood on those mornings. The temptation to turn around and scuttle back home is too great, so we head out and go farther from home. I take my coffee and just let her pick the pace and the amount of time we stay out. The pressure is off, and before I know it, I’m back in my groove—headphones on and Coach Jenny podcasting in my ear. My day has started and I'm back on track.”
For Francine, sharing openly and honestly with the 99 Walks community and connecting with so many others who have also struggled through the pandemic and life changes has brought her out of an isolation and loneliness that crippled her mentally. Today she looks at her life and feels grateful. “My house is organized, and I plan my days and eat healthy. I now have a full gym in my house, and a beautiful zen garden that is MY space. I walk with my husband and we have made time for each other. I’m down 19 lbs since I started in January, and I’ve connected with friends. I’m happy, I feel healthy, I’m not anxious, and above all,” said Francine, “I am not alone.”
Many women struggle with the motivation to get healthy, but it doesn't have to be hard. Join thousands of women who are crushing their goals with 99 Walks, a fun and motivational walking challenge for women. Set your goal, walk your miles and earn an inspirational bracelet.
You'll find all the tools you need to be successful, including a tracking app with an extensive library of walking classes, daily inspiration and a supportive community to keep you going.
Take your first step towards health and happiness, all through the simple act of walking. Start today with two weeks free.