In 2026, I’ll be taking on the incredible challenge of trekking a section of the Great Wall of China in memory of my beautiful mum, who we lost in 2020 in the heart of the COVID-19 pandemic.

That year was filled with so much fear and uncertainty, but through it all, East Cheshire Hospice was a constant source of compassion, dignity, and unwavering support not only for my mum during her final journey, but for us as a family too. Their care went beyond medical support; they gave us comfort, strength, and kindness when we needed it most.

This trek is my way of honouring my mum’s memory, carrying her spirit with me every step of the way, and giving something back to the hospice that gave us so much when our world was falling apart.

Every mile I walk is a thank you — and a promise to help others receive the same love and care we did.

A poem in her memory written by Harriet Bourne!

China trek

Next November, Mum will go,

To China, where the cold winds blow.

She’ll walk the Wall, so long and wide,

With Nan’s name carried by her side.

She’s doing it for a special cause,

For East Cheshire Hospice—and to pause,

To think of Nan, who’s loved so much,

Whose memory still warms with every touch.

It’s not just bricks, or hills to climb,

It’s something deeper, lost in time.

Each step she takes is brave and true,

A journey that’s long overdue.

Through mountain paths and ancient stone,

Mum won’t be walking all alone.

Because in her heart, Nan’s always there—

In every breath, in every prayer.

So here’s to Mum, so strong and bright,

Walking for love, walking for light.

A China trek, a way to say,

We miss you, Nan, every day.