Kyndal Edwards and A Walking Testimony stop at Oaklea in the Journey Across America
- Tiffany Tillema
- Mar 24
- 3 min read
At Oaklea Mansion in Winnsboro, we recently had the honor of hosting a very special guest whose presence brought both inspiration and hope. Kyndal Edwards—better known as Kyndal Ray Edwards from A Walking Testimony—spent the night with us, recharging for the next leg of his incredible journey across America.
A Journey of Transformation
Kyndal's story is one of profound transformation. Once caught in the grips of addiction, facing the darkest moments of depression and even incarceration, he has turned his life around with determination and courage. His path to recovery was neither quick nor simple. Rather than waiting for a miracle or relying solely on the support of others, Kyndal took the initiative to stand up and rebuild his life from the ground up.
The Walk Across America to Raise Awareness
In 2022, Kyndal embarked on an extraordinary mission—to walk across America and raise awareness for mental health issues. When you talk to him, he always mentions where he has been and where he is going. He started in Jacksonville Beach, Florida, made it to Washington, down the coast to the southern tip of California, and is now headed back to Florida and up to Maine. His journey is not just about the miles logged; it’s a living testament to the power of resilience and hope.
Having walked 7,587 miles over 700 days and celebrating 71 months of being drug-free, Kyndal proves that recovery is possible when you choose to take each step with purpose. Along the way, he supports his mission through donations and often embraces the simplicity of life by pitching his own tent or booking a nearby hotel room. His story reminds us that while healing is a long journey, every step forward is a victory.
A Grateful Pause at Oaklea Mansion
Friday night brought Kyndal to Oaklea Mansion, where we were proud to offer him a complimentary night's stay. Our guest was able to enjoy a refreshing shower and a peaceful night's rest—small comforts that provided him with the energy to continue his journey. It was a privilege for us to contribute in our own way to his ongoing mission of hope and recovery.
Spreading the Message
Kyndal's story is not just about overcoming personal demons; it's about inspiring others. His unwavering message, #youmatter, resonates deeply with everyone he meets. Whether you're facing your own battles or simply in need of a reminder that every life is valuable, Kyndal’s journey is a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit.
If you happen to cross paths with him on your travels, take a moment to share a kind word and let him know that his courage and resilience inspire you. To follow his journey, you can connect with him on social media:
Facebook: A Walking Testimony
Instagram: A_walking_testimony
YouTube: A Walking Testimony
Twitter/X: @Kyndalrayy
Additionally, Kyndal supports others through his nonprofit, Addict II Athlete. You can learn more about his work and contribute to the cause at Addict II Athlete Fundraiser.
At Oaklea Mansion, we believe in the power of second chances and the beauty of transformation. Kyndal Edwards' visit was a powerful reminder that every step taken towards recovery is a step towards a brighter future. After all, we all matter.
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