Every spring for the past five years, the child sexual abuse prevention advocates at the Lauren’s Kids office in Miami get ready for one of their most popular events, the Walk in My Shoes. The event is a 1,500 mile walk across the state of Florida in order to raise awareness for child abuse prevention as well as to provide support for survivors of abuse who are staying strong through the healing process.
Participants walk 30 miles each day over the course of the event and that can lead to some really tired legs! When it comes to congratulating someone on a day of walking, here are the top five things you don’t want to say:
5) How much do your feet hurt?
4) Let’s stay out late tonight and celebrate!
3) Can you help me carry this to the car?
2) At least you weren’t running.
1) Tomorrow’s 30 miles will go quicker.
Walking 30 miles every day doesn’t seem like much fun, but the Walk in My Shoes event is so much more than just a walk. It’s a venue for people to come together and pledge their support in ending child abuse once and for all. Survivors and their families can learn about the various programs designed to aid in the healing process and learn how they can help prevent abuse in the future by recognizing the warning signs and taking appropriate action. Education and awareness are the two best tools we have to prevent abuse and the walk is an important part of promoting both.
When your friend, relative or coworker finishes the Walk in My Shoes, all you need to do is give them a hug or a high five and say thanks you for all they’ve done to help survivors of abuse. Message sent by Lauren’s Kids is only as strong as the volunteers who pledge their support! To learn more about how you can register for the walk or donate to the cause, visit the Lauren’s Kids Walk in My Shoes webpage today!