Would you walk across scorching hot embers, burning at 1000 degrees Fahrenheit …or would you get cold feet? Lisa Wharmby, Action for M.E. member and six other courageous supporters of Action for M.E. were all fired up for the challenge.
Imagine the scene. Thick smoke spirals into the midnight sky and the oppressive intense heat from the fire engulfs you. You are staring at a spiralling path of fire with the repetitive beat of tribal drums thudding in the background. Your friends and family are cheering you on, shouting your name. You step forward.
Lisa was in this position on 12 December 2009. Energised by the chants of the crowd behind her she walked on the path of fire not only once, but twice. Lisa shares her experience: “When I was about to walk on the coals, I didn’t feel nervous. We had taken our shoes and socks off and it was freezing outside – I couldn’t wait to heat my feet up! The coals felt lovely and warm.”
Firewalking originated many thousands of years ago, with records dating back to 1200 B.C. Typically used as part of a rite of healing or faith, its use has now evolved into motivational seminars and fundraising events.
Lisa saw the event as an innovative way to fundraise. “It’s something completely different, an exciting challenge. I wanted to do it for a while – I has read other people’s experiences and found them interesting.”
Lisa decided to fundraise for Action for M.E. after suffering with the illness for 16 years. She believes that research should be a priority. “It’s really important that the causes of M.E. are explored, so that better treatments can be found.”
Luckily Lisa and the other members of the group managed to survive scorching their feet and raised over £567.50 for Action for M.E.
Lisa's story was published in InterAction 71, Spring 2010.
