On Saturday 28th August, supporter Diane Baldry put her stamina to the test, walking 34 miles in a bid to raise vital funds for Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation. Diane, a 68-year-old epileptic woman with a history of heart problems, walked in memory of her partner’s niece and Goddaughter Katrina Irons.
“I’m taking on this challenge in memory of my beautiful partner’s niece, Katrina who had been living with lung cancer for the past 18 months before she died in July.
“I chose to walk 34 miles because it marks the number of years I’ve been with my partner. When we met, I was fortunate to have Katrina, who was 11 at the time, join my family. I am devastated that we’ve now lost her at such a young age; she was just 45 years.”
A walk of honour
“The challenge on Beccles Common in Suffolk was one I was anxious but excited about completing in memory of Katrina.
“I’m 68 with epilepsy and have had heart problems in the past but I knew that no matter how much I suffered, it would be nothing compared to what Katrina went through. The thought of her, and knowing I was helping others like her, kept me going.
“Originally, I wanted to raise £500 for the charity and I’m proud to say that friends, family and strangers have supported me generously. I’ve beaten my target and I’ve still got funds from collection buckets to come in yet!”
Support for those who care
“On the day I had an amazing ten-person support team who made posters, walked with me and kept my spirits up. I ended up collecting £100 in donations from the public with their help.
“I’m really thankful to everyone who came out and supported me. It took 13 hours to complete, with rest stops in between but the cheers from my team and members of the public really spurred me on.
“It was a glorious day with beautiful weather, and I’m so thrilled to have completed it and surpassed my fundraising target. I’m sure that Katrina was looking down, cheering me on and willing me to succeed.
“Taking on this challenge really put me to the test, but I’m glad I was able to honour Katrina’s memory and the joy she brought to my life.”
