One step at a time: one mum’s journey after loss

When Lorna was widowed in 2016 with two young sons at home, she needed something that was just for her. She started walking.

Short local routes at first, a walk to the shops, fifteen minutes to clear her head. Over time, her fitness improved, her confidence grew, and the isolation of grief began to lift.

Her story is one we’re sharing to mark National Walking Month this May.  Our Scottish Walking and Wheeling Survey shows that 57% of Scots now walk every day, up from 52% in 2023, and that more than three quarters say they walk because it is good for their health.  We want to see that number continue to increase.

For Lorna, walking became the way she prioritised her own wellbeing during a difficult time. It was free, it was flexible, and it didn’t ask too much of her. New routes led to new places, new places led to new people, and new people became friends. “Walking means everything to me,” she said. “It saved me when I was widowed.”

During the pandemic, Lorna started a Facebook group for people in East Dunbartonshire to share local walking routes, a small act that has since grown into a thriving community group. But she is clear that scaling mountains was never the goal. It was about small, consistent steps that put her own health first, and the rest followed.

“Lorna’s story shows us why walking and wheeling, which includes the use of wheelchairs, mobility scooters, walking frames, prams or buggies, is so important. What started as a way to cope with a difficult time became a daily habit with so many benefits.

“National Walking Month is about showing people that everyday walking and wheeling can have a real impact. A walk to the shops, wheeling to the bus stop… these everyday journeys make a difference.”

Tess, our Communications and Policy Manager

When asked what makes it harder to walk more, Scots pointed to health issues, time pressures and bad weather. When asked what would encourage them to walk more, Scots answered feeling safer, better local paths and having someone to walk with – the same things that made such a difference to Lorna when she started out.

Lorna’s message to anyone who has not yet taken that first step is simple. It does not have to be a big walk – it just has to start.

Lorna’s story is a reminder of the value of walking – it is a route to connection, community and confidence, and one that is available to everyone regardless of age, background or ability. 

Explore our interactive map of Health Walks that are free and easy to join, and offer accessible, short walks in communities across Scotland. Many of the walks also include strength and balance activities that support people to stay active for longer. 

Published: 20 May 2026