Crisis-hit cancer charity launches big fundraiser Walk for Hope
A CANCER charity which is battling for survival has announced plans for its biggest fundraising event of the year in the New Forest to raise vital cash.
The Wessex Cancer Trust is inviting people to put their best feet forward at the annual Walk for Hope which is being held at Burley Park and last year raised £50,000.
The charity, which has been running for 40 years, hopes to beat that total after launching a crisis appeal last December. It is struggling financially amid a 30% increase in demand for services combined with a 65% reduction in gifts in wills and a 15% decline in high street revenue.
It costs £100,000 per month for the charity to run free emotional and practical support to those affected by the disease living in Hampshire, Dorset and the Isle of Wight.
In the Walk for Hope participants can choose from five, 10 or 20-mile routes, making the event accessible for supporters of all ages and abilities.
Three hundred people and 30 dogs took part in the 2019 walk, together they raised £50,000.
Dan Bateman walked the 10-mile route last year with his wife Ashleen who had recently been diagnosed with cancer.
He said: “The months leading up to the walk had obviously been really tough for us, so taking part in Walk for Hope was something really positive to focus on.
“Everyone who took part was really friendly, and because we’ve all been touched by cancer in some way, there was a real sense of community and support. It wasn’t a race because we really felt like we were on the same team.”
Dan says although taking part in a charity event can seem daunting, he advises anyone thinking about it to “go for it”.
He added: “Walk for Hope was great because it was challenging, but there was a choice of distances so as many people as possible could get involved.
“We were spurred on by everyone around us and knowing we were doing it for a brilliant cause. And, of course, the promise of a burger at the end helped.”
Event organiser Catherine Lawry, from Wessex Cancer Trust, said: “The peace and beauty of the New Forest make it a fitting setting to come together to give hope to friends and family undergoing cancer treatment, to remember loved ones and to support everyone affected by cancer.
“We would love 2020 to be the biggest and best yet.”
Entrants will receive an official Walk for Hope T-shirt, training and fundraising tips. After being cheered over the finish line, walkers will receive medals and refreshments. The event is being sponsored by Irwin Mitchell Solicitors.
Tickets are £15 for a child under 16, £25 for adults, and £75 for a team of four, with a sponsorship goal of £200. For more information visit wessexcancer.org.uk/Event/wfh-2020 or contact catherine.lawry@wessexcancer.org.uk
