OUR CAUSE
Bare Your Soles is an event for fundraising for Ataxia UK, a charity that supports people affected by ataxia. Ataxia is a group of neurological disorders that affect balance, coordination, and speech. Ataxia UK provides support, information, and research to improve the lives of people with ataxia. By participating in Bare Your Soles, you can help raise awareness and funds for this important cause.
Bare Your Soles is more than just a walk. It's an opportunity to connect with others, to challenge yourself, and to make a difference all whilst connecting with nature in the historic grounds of Stowe School Buckinghamshire.
What it feels like to have Ataxia
As a parent of a child with Ataxia, it is truly heartbreaking. Watching her friends run off and have fun while she desperately wants to join in but can’t is so tough. We know she will face increasing challenges, and her body will become weaker. It leaves us feeling helpless.
The relationship with her sibling has been strained. He can now run faster, swim better, and ride his bike more easily—all at a time when things are becoming harder for her. It’s difficult for him too because he loved nothing more than running alongside his sister, and now they can’t do that anymore. She feels frustrated with him but can’t explain why. She knows it’s not fair and it’s not his fault. He is confused, unsure how to handle it.
Yet, despite everything trying to pull them apart, it’s bringing them closer. He quietly reaches out a hand when she struggles to walk uphill. She cheers him on when they swim. He stands up for her when people say mean things, and she helps him feel more comfortable with school transitions, knowing how hard change can be.
We are incredibly proud of them both. Every day they surprise us with their resilience and their ability to find moments of joy despite the challenges.
JOIN US
Registration is now open for Bare Your Soles, a barefoot walk supporting Ataxia UK! You can sign up as an individual or join as part of a team. The route features fun and interactive stations to keep everyone engaged and excited throughout the walk.
Your ticket includes a T-shirt, entry to the walk, a finishers drink. After the event, enjoy a buffet and entertainment, included in your ticket price—perfect for the whole family, whether you’re coming from near or far.
Come barefoot, have fun, and help us support a great cause!
SPREAD THE WORD
RAISE FUNDS
WIN PRIZES
