LANSING, Mich. — A man is resting on Monday after completing a journey of more than 300 miles across the state....on foot.
Paul TenHarmsel, 26, walks across the state along the road for mental health awareness (source, Paul TenHarmsel).But this physical challenge is nothing compared to the challenges he's overcome in the last six years, including alcoholism and depression.
For the last two weeks, Paul TenHarmsel has been walking along roads across Michigan. At first, he wanted to prove something to himself, but then it became more.
"Just one step at a time, one mile at a time. And make it that 310 miles...I'll always have that walk to look back on and it will just give me hope of a life of sobriety," TenHarmsel said.
Starting in Marine City, the 26-year-old began his trek across his home state. He walked anywhere from 20 to 30 miles a day along back roads and highways. After battling with depression, anxiety, and alcoholism for the past six years, he wanted to set his sights one something and finish it.
"It was tougher than expected for sure."
But even after tens of thousands of steps a day and a swollen leg, TenHarmsel didn't lose his positivity or sight of his goal. And soon, others started to notice too, sharing their struggles.
"I get to just message them back while I'm walking a little bit just saying 'you're not alone, there is hope, you can keep going.' Just the community that it kind of built was really cool," he said.
On Monday, TenHarmsel was resting before heading back to work on Tuesday. News 10 asked him what he learned on his trek across the mitten: he stressed the importance of following through on commitments, spreading joy, and lastly: it's OK to forgive yourself.
"I'm strong, and so are you. So is everyone else out there," he said. "Just keep going."
Now that he's back, TenHarmsel is raising money for the Brain and Behavior Research Foundation. He said he has a long way to go but is proud of how far he's come.
TenHarmsel finished his walk in Ludington last Thursday.
He is four months sober and counting.
To donate to his cause, click here.
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