Louisa Harding
Louisa's page
Fundraising for Macmillan Cancer Support
Story
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Himalayan Hiking Hats
Nepal Hiking Challenge 1-11 November 2012The challange
For me, Louisa, (a very average wife, mum, daughter, knitwear designer, dog walker) to embark on an amazing 11 day trip to Nepal - including a 7 day rough trek - sleeping in tents, long drop toilets, no washing facilities – only rivers, between 4 and 9 hours daily trekking, amazing adventures, vistas and views. The aim to raise least £3,400 for Macmillan Cancer Support which includes cost of the trip.
My Goal
To raise £5,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support.
My family have sponsored me £1,100 which pays for the cost of the trip. All further money donated goes directly to Macmillan.
Why a Macmillan Cancer Support fundraising challenge?
In January 2011 Stephen, my husband and rock was diagnosed with Lymphoma. He started aggressive chemotherapy in February and was very ill, he was cared for fantastically and I was supported by Macmillan Cancer Support.
Until last year ‘Cancer’ was a word I’d heard but was something I was totally naïve about. Cancer is all consuming, for those diagnosed and for those supporting them.
How Macmillan Cancer Support helped us
Our health district has a specific Macmillan funded unit which meant Stephen was treated nearer to home by Macmillan trained specialist chemotherapy nurses who are amazing.
The Macmillan website was my lifeline. We were able to find out about Stephens diagnosis, treatment, side effects, both physical and emotional, how and what to tell the children and what to expect during his treatment and afterwards.
My support for Macmillan Cancer Support
Not only am I appealing to friends and relatives who know and love us for sponsorship – thank you x
I am also putting together a series of seven knitting patterns called ‘Himalayan Hiking Hats’.
My personal aim is to have my photo taken wearing each one of the hats on the first 6 days of the trek. The seventh hat pattern in the series will be knitted 'en route' and photographed on the 7th (our last) trekking day!
Your support for Macmillan Cancer Support
Join me on my challenge by downloading and knitting the hats – great as gifts and stash busting.
Three patterns are available now – see photos.
This is an honesty box so you don’t have to make a donation, but please do…thank you.
Now
Since Stephen finished chemotherapy in June 2011 he has continued to be monitored and receives amazing care, he is flourishing – see him wearing the Stripy Karuwa Hat!
He is back working with me photographing my knitwear collections and supporting me with my trek training, gradually building up our fitness together walking the dog.
His new mantra, ‘life has to be lived with a capital F for Fun!’
Future
Watch this space for updates on the patterns - 3 more will be available in September, my training (OK - dog walking with our very obliging Springer Spaniel, Bo) and further fundraising ideas to make that goal of £5,000.