Shining World Compassion Award Recipient: The Brave Caeden Thomson – Walking for Charity

The iconic Ben Nevis, famously known as “mountain with its head in the clouds” in ancient Gaelic language, attracts 125,000 mountain walkers every year. Few would have thought, though, that trekking on this tallest peak in the British Isles would inspire a sparkling dream in a young boy with cerebral palsy.

Caeden Thomson from Northamptonshire, UK, was born 12 weeks premature eight years ago, and was thought to be unable to sit, walk and talk for the rest of his life. However, with great courage and perseverance he climbed to the summit of Ben Nevis on August 29, 2020. Caeden and his group started at 9 am that day and returned to the ground after dark. His legendary endeavor was motivated by his pure-hearted desire to “give back” for all the support he’s had throughout his life.

Brave young Caeden and his family conceived of the climb up Ben Nevis during the pandemic lockdowns as a way to raise funds for Scope, a disability equality charity, and the National Health Service of the UK. Upon hearing of Caeden’s inspiring actions, our Benevolent Supreme Master Ching Hai: “Joyfully present the Shining World Compassion Award to Caeden Thomson and US$10,000 in loving support of his heroic, big-hearted endeavor, with a big hug, lots of love and praises.”

"Dear Caeden, It is with great admiration and gratitude that we present to you the 'Shining World Compassion Award' for overcoming adversity and shining as a beacon of hope for the community. This Award is presented in recognition of your courage to go beyond boundaries for the benefit of others, and for uplifting our world with your inspiring story which has touched the heart of the nation. For your pure-hearted kindness in support of medical workers and support staff, and for being a model citizen, with much joy, we praise the benevolent, heroic deeds of Caeden Thomson. May Heaven forever grace and shield you, your family and all involved. In God’s Loving Embrace and Divine Guidance, Supreme Master Ching Hai"