77 Miles in Memory of My Mum – Manchester to Russells Hall Hospital

In March, I’ll be walking 77 miles from Manchester to Russell's Hall Hospital in Dudley, over four days, arriving on Mother’s Day.

The walk begins in Manchester, where my mum was born. Many people also knew her as a lifelong Manchester United supporter, so starting there felt appropriate.

Russell's Hall Hospital is where my mum was treated for cancer. In particular, the NHS Dudley Group – Georgina Unit, which specialises in cancer care and treatment, played an important role during her illness. Arriving there on Mother’s Day felt like the right way to remember her.

While she was alive, my mum carried out a great deal of charity work. Even while living with polymyalgia and stage 4 cancer, she completed a walk-a-mile-a-day fundraiser throughout November, raising money for a cancer charity. That was just one of many fundraisers she took on despite her own health challenges.

Last year, I raised over £500 by shaving my beard off for charity. This year, I wanted to do something more demanding and more reflective of the example my mum set.

Seventy-seven miles is roughly 150,000 steps, which I’ll complete over four days. I’m training in advance to ensure the walk is done properly and safely.

All donations from this page will go to the NHS Dudley Group – Georgina Unit, supporting cancer care and treatment for others going through similar experiences.

Thank you for taking the time to read this, and for any support you’re able to give.