Every year, thousands of volunteers participate in our fundraising events. This is Anna's experience.
Every year, thousands of volunteers participate in our fundraising events. This is Anna's experience.
WalkWise weekends
This is the second year in a row I have taken part in the Cotswolds Challenge and I have previously taken part in the Royal Parks Half Marathon. Having a personal connection to breast cancer and the importance of fundraising, it really is a pleasure to spend the weekend with such inspiring people.
From women who have overcome a diagnosis, to friends and family who have lost loved ones, a WalkWise weekend is full of men and women who just want to celebrate life and fund vital breast cancer research. I couldn’t think of a better way to spend a weekend.
From arriving at the hotel on Friday evening, to peeling off my boots on Sunday, everything had been thought of! I could switch off from day to day life and enjoy a weekend away with a purpose.
Payment included accommodation for two nights with a three-course meal on Friday and Saturday, a picnic lunch on both Saturday and Sunday (which is enjoyed in front of spectacular views!), and breakfast before heading out walking on both days.
Not to mention unwavering enthusiasm from the professional guides at WalkWise. They know the routes like the back of their hands, and will even patch up a blister should you need it!
A Walkwise weekend can suit anyone
It’s clear that everyone is welcome on a WalkWise weekend. All fitness levels are catered for, and if you have any special requirements or worries about registering, just contact Breast Cancer Now or WalkWise and they’ll do their best to ensure your needs are met.
Being fairly fit, I don’t find the walking so challenging, but the group split off into two – one group for those who want to take it easy, and another for those who want to march on a little faster. We’d then all eat dinner together in the evening and share our thoughts on the route, and how we found the hilly parts!
I went on both treks alone, and there were many others who did so too. But there are also groups and couples who join – everyone is made to feel so welcomed and part of the team. It’s a great opportunity to make new friends, and lots of people have met on a WalkWise trek continue to go year after year to meet up and spend a weekend together!
Feeling proud of what we achieved
I left on the Sunday feeling incredibly relaxed and proud of what we all achieved. I loved being able to walk and share stories across the weekend. I have a personal experience with breast cancer, and to share a weekend with people who have gone through similar experiences is incredibly powerful. I find that it’s a perfect way for me to remember my loved ones and celebrate the life I am lucky to have.
In 2019, there will be 4 WalkWise treks across the country:
Gower Coastal Challenge – 12-14 April
Hadrian’s Wall Challenge – 7-9 June
Lake District Challenge – 19-21 July
Cotswolds Challenge – 27-29 September
If you've been inspired by Anna and want to get involved with a WalkWise event near you, sign up today.