On 3rd September 2020 we are inviting as many Unilever employees as possible to re-create last year's hugely successful charity walk in remembrance of Renée Metroka.

Renée was an inspiration for so many across Unilever, with her never give up attitude and positive outlook on life. Her smile, energy and happiness was infectious. Renée was first diagnosed with a rare ocular cancer in 2014. Unfortunately, the cancer spread to her liver and she sadly lost her fight in January 2018. The Great Walk was founded in loving memory of Renée with the aim to raise money as much money as possible for The Liverpool Ocular Oncology Research Group (LOORG). LOORG is a charity close to Renée’s & her family’s heart as rare cancers like these are often overlooked when trying to raise funds.

The 'Virtual' Great Walk 2020 challenge is to walk a half or full marathon on a route of your choice. Colleagues up and down the country will walk independently or in small groups following government guidelines. However, if individuals do not have the time or feel comfortable walking a half or full marathon, we are encouraging everyone to get involved and walk a distance of their choice - every mile walked and penny raised helps!

The Liverpool Ocular Oncology Research Group’s (LOORG’s) mission is to conduct high quality basic, translational and clinical research into the pathogenesis and treatment of adult ocular tumours that will improve patient care and survival.. A major strength of the LOORG is the close collaboration between ocular oncology clinicians, pathologists and basic scientists which ensure that the research they conduct addresses the key questions that will bring about improved survival and quality of life for ocular oncology patients.

Last year the money we raised went towards funding a PhD student to concentrate on better understanding this disease when its spreads to the liver, in order to improve current therapy. This year we are hoping to make another meaningful difference. You never know, the money we raise may just be the funding needed for LOORG to make a breakthrough. Each donation will truly make a difference. Thank you for supporting!