He’s walked over 8,000 miles for mental health awareness and his latest stop was on the Mississippi Gulf Coast
731 days and over 8,000 miles, that’s how far Kyndal Ray Edwards or better known as, A Walking Testimony, has been walking across the United States.
Equipped with a cart that spells out “You Matter,” his journey is about far more than logging his daily steps but rather remembering those who are no longer with us due to mental health and recovery issues.
“We’re walking for them, we’re walking for those currently struggling with mental health issues and recovery issues to let them know that there is hope, that we do recover, that we all have value and purpose and that we’re all loved and cared about.”
After his own troubles with the law, Kyndal began his journey to raise awareness for mental health and recovery, with what started as a walk from Florida to Washington. Once he finished he realized it wasn’t enough and made it his goal to travel to each corner of the the country. A journey that’s lasted two years, live-streaming almost every moment and spreading his message along the 24 state lines he’s crossed.
“I get people that cry and stop on the side of the road with me whenever that see that “You Matter” sign. I’ve literally had grown man stop and say, “Hey I was about to go home and do something dumb, I needed to see that sign. Can I give you a hug?” It’s just so important and I’ve just learned there’s so much good in the world and people just want some love and positivity.”
On Thursday Kyndal officially made his way to South Mississippi and was met with signature Coast hospitality as droves of supporters made their way out to see him.
“There’s more good than bad, you just have to find it and it seems like he’s on a mission to find it,” said Roland Landry, who went to Kyndal’s meet and greet on Friday in Bay St. Louis.
Kyndal will continue his journey along the coast to Florida, where his journey began, before trekking back up the coast to Maine, to finish a journey that all started with a single step.
