Since I started working for Planit Scotland, I've enjoyed a short commute to the office - a daily average of 10 steps to and from the spare room!

So, in February 2024, I'm going to 'commute' to work by walking the equivalent distance from my front door in Aberdeen to Planit Scotland's HQ in Inverness. That's 166km (103 miles for the imperially minded) across 29 days - all to raise funds for Young Lives vs Cancer.

"Why February, when it's the shortest month and likely cold and you're travelling to Inverness and Blackpool so will have less time available to walk?" I hear you ask. Well, when you put it like that, it sounds a bit silly. But everyone loves a challenge. And hey, at least it's a leap year!

You can follow my journey throughout the month on Strava, where I'll be recording my walks: https://www.strava.com/athletes/eoinsmith

Anything you are able to donate is greatly appreciated.

Why Young Lives vs Cancer?

I have known many friends and family – young and old – who have been diagnosed with cancer over the last few years. Some of them we have sadly lost. But I also know some truly inspirational people who have overcome the disease.

One of those people is my colleague, Lauren. Not only has she undergone gruelling treatment to combat the condition, but she has dedicated much of her time since to supporting the charities that helped her through the situation.

As a member of the Young Lives vs Cancer voice board, she sits on an advisory panel of former cancer patients and families that help shape policy, services and projects for the charity - giving a voice to service users.

Young Lives vs Cancer (fka CLIC Sargent) supports young people and families in many different ways - one of the most important for Lauren being their Homes from Home, which allow cancer patients and families access to free accommodation near hospitals. Lauren was able to make use of these in both Glasgow and Belfast during her treatment, which she says made a huge difference to her and her family.

Take a look at these blogs to hear Lauren's story in her own words - about treatment, support from Young Lives vs Cancer, and returning to work:

https://www.younglivesvscancer.org.uk/blog/laurens-story/

https://www.planitscotland.com/taking-the-leap-post-treatment-world-cancer-day/

About Young Lives vs Cancer

When a child is diagnosed with cancer life becomes full of fear, for them and their family. Fear of treatment, but also of families being torn apart, overwhelming money worries, of having nowhere to turn, no one to talk to.

At Young Lives vs Cancer, we help families find the strength to face whatever cancer throws at them. But every day 12 more children and young people hear the devastating news they have cancer. We’ll face it all together – but we can’t do it without you.

To find out more visit https://www.younglivesvscancer.org.uk