In November 2016, completely out of the blue, I was diagnosed with breast cancer and had major surgery (mastectomy and reconstruction) on 23rd January 2017.  This was followed by chemotherapy and radiotherapy, so 2017 was a hugely challenging year for both my husband Alistair and myself. As soon as possible after surgery I was out walking - being able to get out and enjoy nature kept me fit, both physically and mentally; we hugely enjoyed our getaways to various parts of the UK and made some great memories.  I've no doubt that keeping active has contributed to my positive recovery. I'm now back at work full time (as a KS1 teacher) but am determined to keep walking!

This year I want to raise awareness about two things: firstly, be aware  that it's important to check for any changes in your body (try googling: know your lemons).  Most of us are rubbish at checking, if it wasn't for Alistair spotting a 'bruise' I probably wouldn't even have noticed anything different. Secondly, the fantastic treatment and support I received - and still am receiving - throughout the whole ordeal at  Hinchingbrooke Hospital and the Woodlands Centre. I feel incredibly lucky to have Hinchingbrooke and the Woodlands on my doorstep; it's an amazing place and the staff are fantastic.  Any money that you choose to donate to this good cause will go directly to Hinchingbrooke Healthcare NHS Trust Fund - a charity that funds all sorts of things which have an impact directly on patients but which the NHS itself is unable to finance. If my walking a mere 1000 miles can help to fund a reclining chair, chemo pump, heat pad.....whatever they wish to spend it on.....then it's money well spent. 

So my aim is to walk 1000-miles between 23rd January this year and next, that's about 83 miles every month; additionally I aim to complete a long distance challenge as part of my 1000-miles, something which I've wanted to do for years! We're also remembering our good friend and neighbour, Pauline, who, like me, received first class treatment at Hinchingbrooke and the Woodlands Centre.

Thank you for any donation you wish to make :-)