Hike For Happiness from Andrew Lupton, a.k.a. Luppy
- jeevan sanghhh
- 11 minutes ago
- 2 min read
“Gratitude on the West Highland Way: A Reflection on Purpose and Joy”
When I set out to hike and wild camp the 154km West Highland Way for 6 days over the remote hills of Scotland, it wasn’t just for the adventure. It wasn’t just for the challenge, the mountains, the scenery, or the satisfaction of ticking off another trail. I walked with a purpose, to help bring birthday happiness to children in Hong Kong who might otherwise go unnoticed on their special day. I was also fortunate that one of my sons, Ross, who recently graduated in Scotland was able to join me, together with one of his friends, James who walked and camped with us for the first three days.
Through the incredible work of Birthday Happiness Asia (BHA), I had the chance to turn each mile into a message: that every child deserves to feel celebrated, seen and loved. BHA organizes joyful birthday parties for underprivileged children, creating memories that last far beyond the cake and candles. And knowing that my steps could help light up a child’s face? That was real fuel behind every step.
Happiness was with me in so many moments: sunrise over Loch Lomond, laughter with my son echoing through Glen Coe, the shared stories with fellow hikers who were also walking for causes close to their hearts. But it was a feeling of real gratitude that stayed with me. It was the quiet awe I felt realizing that despite my sore & bloodied feet on day 3 I was part of something far bigger than myself.
I’m deeply grateful to have had the health, the time, and the support to take on this hike. Grateful to the donors who believed in the mission. Grateful to BHA for reminding me that joy isn’t a luxury, it’s a right. And most of all, grateful to the children whose resilience and spirit inspired every step.
So to everyone who helped make this journey possible, Thank You! Your kindness helped transform the trail into a celebration. And to the children of Hong Kong, I hope the money raised may provide more of you with birthdays be filled with laughter, love, and the knowledge that you matter.
Here’s to walking with purpose, and to the kind of happiness that begins with gratitude. Oh, did I mention that James met Ross at a birthday party in Scotland over 20 years ago. Birthdays can be life changing and provide friendships that last a lifetime.
When back in Hong Kong we arranged a small presentation with an auction and raffle at The Wanch who kindly sponsored the event venue and also donated proceeds from F&B sales. Thank you to those individuals and corporates who sponsored prizes for the raffle and supported the event. We were kindly supported by, Brixon Overseas, Ruby Tuesday, Tsunami Sport, Kowloon Rugby (Kowloon Cares), Potbellied Pigs RFC and many individuals.
If you wish for information on how you can get involved with BHA, please do reach out to us.
Thank you.
Luppy
Comments