In September 2024, I am taking on a 26 mile Mighty Hike along the stunning Dorset Coast to raise vital funds for people living with cancer.

Where do I start? Since June 2023 my wife, Dawn, has been being treated for Breast Cancer. From 2021 until he died in May 2023 I was caring for my dad who had Prostate Cancer as well as Alzheimer's. Going back to 2009 my mum died while being treated for Bowel Cancer. Earlier that year my father-in-law lost his battle with Prostate Cancer. There are others, my aunt in 2000, my uncle last year, but I think the picture is clear, Macmillan do invaluable work supporting people through these horrible journeys, whatever the outcome.

The challenge... Back in 2022 I did a similar 26 mile walk to raise money for the Alzheimer's Society, and I decided to do something again. It wasn't easy, but I managed it. This time it should be easier, right? Well, probably not. Shortly after my dad died I started having back problems, and after a spell in Southampton General on the Spinal Ward I was discharged for ongoing physio (thankfully the talk of tumours was scary, but turned out not to be the case - I was lucky). My physio has approved my mad plan, so I'm going for it. Hopefully new tendon problems with my shoulder won't hamper my use of walking poles.

So one way or another I am determined to complete this hike and raise as much as I can for Macmillan.

I have pledged to raise £250 and would appreciate any support in reaching this. By fundraising my pledge, I could pay for a Macmillan Support Worker for two days who could provide emotional, practical and financial advice to someone affected by cancer.

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