Walking 25km for Debbie – Celebrating 34 Years of Love

On 12 September 2026, what would have been our 34th Wedding Anniversary, I'll be taking on the Thames Bridges Trek – 25km across London – in memory of my wonderful wife, Debbie.

Debbie passed away on 1st December 2025 after living with primary breast cancer and then secondary breast cancer that had spread to other parts of her body. Throughout her illness, we experienced incredible kindness, compassion and professionalism from the staff at the Arden Centre at University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire.

Many people raise money for national cancer charities, and they do fantastic work. But for us, around 95% of Debbie's overall treatment, care and support came from the doctors, nurses and staff at the Arden Centre. They became such an important part of our lives, always treating Debbie with dignity, compassion and genuine care, while supporting our whole family through the toughest of times.

Rather than spending our wedding anniversary consumed by grief and those little voices that come from nowhere without warning, I've decided to celebrate Debbie's life by doing something positive in her memory.

Joining me will be our sons, David, his partner Kirsty and Sam; my brother Joe— who was also my best man 34 years ago and his daughter Emily; and our family friend Annemarie. Together, we will be the seven magnificent Penguins, remembering Debbie in our hearts every step of the way.

And there is a slight twist to our challenge. We'll be doing the trek dressed as Penguins - the mascot of UHCW Charity. It will add to the fun, laughter and humour on this special day.

We will be raising money for the University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire Charity to support the Arden Centre, helping them continue to provide outstanding care for patients and families facing their cancer journey.

If you knew Debbie, you'll know she was always passionate about bringing community and family together.

If you're able to donate, no matter how much, it would mean a great deal to me and my family. Every contribution will help provide support within the Arden Centre

If you can't donate, please consider sharing this page with friends and family. That simple act can make a huge difference.

This walk is for Debbie. Every bridge, every mile, every step will bring humour, laughter, fun and the odd tear of sadness and loss.

Thank you for helping us remember Debbie in such a positive way. Your kindness, encouragement and support mean more than words can express.

Sometimes the strongest bridges are the ones we build together.