From 1st September, our dedicated team will be lacing up their boots to take on the challenge of walking approximately 5.5 miles every day throughout September as part of the Horbury Group Walking Challenge 2025. This friendly (but competitive!) race is not just about the steps we take; it’s about the support we provide to families in need. We are raising funds and awareness for PACT (Parents Association of Children with Tumours and Leukaemia), an incredible charity that has been a beacon of hope for families since 1977.

PACT offers vital resources, including a dedicated home-from-home next to Sheffield Children’s Hospital, practical support for families and hospital staff, essential equipment for wards and community nurses, and joyful events that give families a much-needed break from treatment. The team with the most sponsors and distance covered will claim victory, but it is truly the families supported by PACT who will benefit from our efforts.

💛 Walking with Owen

At the beginning of last year’s challenge, we were contacted by Owen’s wonderful parents, Bill and Andrea, who reached out to ask how they could support our fundraiser – despite the huge challenges they were facing as a family. From that first conversation, it was clear they were something special. Their kindness, positivity, and unwavering spirit have inspired us all, and over time, they’ve become true friends to many of us at Horbury.

That’s why this year’s walk is even more meaningful. We’ve named our event “Walking with Owen” – to honour their incredible son’s bravery and to recognise the many children like him who are supported by PACT with care, compassion, and love.

Owen Jenkinson is a truly remarkable young man we came to know through PACT. They have stood beside him and his family throughout his treatment at Sheffield Children’s Hospital. Owen joined us on our first walk in 2024, and from that moment, his strength, resilience, and bright spirit touched every one of us.

He has faced numerous rounds of chemotherapy with extraordinary courage. Sadly, following his latest treatment, scans showed that the tumour in his lung had grown. His consultant explained that further chemotherapy would no longer be effective and would only make him more unwell. The focus now shifts to cherishing every moment.

In true Team Jenko style, this next chapter will be filled with singing, dancing, laughter, and love – making lasting memories and celebrating the joy Owen continues to bring into the world.

We invite you to join us in making every step count this September. Our target is to raise £10,000 to help continue PACT's invaluable work. Your support can make a significant difference in the lives of children battling cancer and leukaemia. Let’s come together to inspire hope and provide comfort where it is needed most. Stay tuned for regular updates on our progress and sponsor leaderboards throughout the month! 💙👟