Just six days shy of her 81st birthday, last month Margaret Waselenko of Pelly walked a total of 15 kilometres from Pelly to Arran.
It was a cold and rainy day when she struck out on the highway on October 7, which was to be the fourth time she walked the distance to the neighbouring community.
The journey took her three and half hours to complete, and although she walked by herself, her brother followed in the vehicle to ensure her safety.
During the previous three walks, Waselenko had been joined by close friends and was escorted by her late husband Sam.
Waselenko has also walked to Norquay numerous times in the past. She said that to condition herself and prepare for the long distances, she walks two miles each day.
When asked about the walk, Waselenko said she was disappointed that it took 15 minutes longer to complete the walk this year. Chuckling, she recalled the advice her brother gave her when she made it to the hill at roughly the halfway point.
“He told me I better take a run at it to make it over the top.”
When Waselenko was asked if she had any advice to offer, she simply replied: “Just breathe.”
Waselenko said she plans to conquer the 15-kilometre distance again next year, “God willing.”
