Temel Atacocugu started a walk between the place where the murderer started his fated journey between Dunedin and Christchurch 3 years ago this week. Here is what Temel wrote on his Givealittle page:
To my friends far and wide – those I know and those I don’t. Please give from your heart to my chosen charities, as I walk the path of the terrorist who only made us stronger. Still recovering from nine bullets, I will walk from Dunedin to Christchurch in time for the third anniversary of the March 15 attacks. Please support me and help nurture the mental health and wellbeing of the children who are our future and our hope. ‘Peace at home, peace in the world.’ – Ataturk
The Press reported that he had ended up in hospital in Timaru and had to abandon his walking instead to travel by bike. Here’s what the Press reported https://www.stuff.co.nz/timaru-herald/news/128011764/temel-back-on-the-road-determined-to-complete-peace-pilgrimage.
Temel Atacocugu is determined to complete his Walk for Peace and has swapped pounding the pavements with pedal power.
After two nights in Timaru Hospital with a blood infection, Temel Atacocugu is back on the road and determined to complete what he started – a 350-kilometre journey from Dunedin to Christchurch.
Atacocugu – who was shot nine times in the terrorist attack at Al Noor Mosque in Christchurch – started on foot, but eight days in, with severe blistering to his feet, stomach pains and a fever he was admitted to hospital on Tuesday.
With the health issues causing a change of plans, and walking all but out of the question, Atacocugu is determined to retrace the route the terrorist took when he travelled from Dunedin to Christchurch on March 15, 2019, and “reclaim it for peace”, he said.
This is his “Give a Little” page, all proceeds to be divided equally between three children’s charities. So far he’s had $44,600 donated.
Where can supporters welcome him back on Tuesday (I assume) place and time ?
Good question Alister