‘Pacin’ Parson’ to complete walk for MS, sister

Published 5:00 pm Thursday, June 20, 2013

Auburn’s man of sole walks for many friends, many causes.

But Don Stevenson’s latest ultra-walk hits closer to home.

The 77-year-old “Pacin’ Parson” plans to complete a 23,000-mile walk to raise money and awareness for multiple sclerosis, dedicating the effort to his sister, Stephanie Barry, who is fighting the devastating disease.

Stevenson’s oldest brother died from complications of MS at the age of 31.

Stevenson officially begins the journey at 9 a.m. Monday at Game Farm Park. The public is invited to join him.

“Actually I have already hoofed 15,000 miles. The upcoming 8,000 miles will bring the total to 23,000,” Stevenson said.

Stevenson plans to walk 30 miles a day at the park during the week and follow various trails outside the park on weekends.

Proceeds from the walk benefit the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Like her brother the walker, Barry has dedicated her life ministering to others, especially children. She is retired from Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio, and is the mother of three daughters and the proud grandmother of several grandchildren.

“One of her favorite pastimes was ‘being a clown’ for children,” Stevenson said.

“I can’t give much for the MS cause,” he added, “but what I do have I wish to give it all, namely my heart and my legs.”

Stevenson, a former Marine, pastor, teacher and truck driver, has walked more than 50,000 miles for various charities since 1998. Long-distance walking became his passion after his retirement in 1994.

In 2002, Stevenson walked 8,000 miles in Game Farm Park for MS. A year earlier, he walked 3,000 miles from Seattle to New York City for MS, and walked 4,000 miles from Tijuana, Mexico to Anchorage, Alaska for MS in 2000.

To donate and to learn more, visit www.thepacingparson.com.