Tag: Walk the Walk

Make 2nds Count announces Monumental Milestone

The innovative service celebrates a pivotal achievement in advancing patient access to clinical trials

Make 2nds Count, a pioneering charity dedicated to raising awareness and funding research for secondary breast cancer, is proud to announce that – championed by a generous grant from Breast Cancer charity Walk the Walk – their Patient Trials Advocate (PTA) service has so far supported 500 secondary breast cancer patients across the UK, marking a significant milestone and pivotal achievement in advancing patient access to clinical trials.

In a noteworthy collaboration, the Walk the Walk charity – organiser of the iconic MoonWalk London and MoonWalk Scotland fundraising events – has donated £79,434 to the PTA service, which was originally launched in 2021. These funds will be used to finance the full initiative for the next 9 months to a year, demonstrating the collective effort to make a meaningful impact in the lives of secondary breast cancer patients.

Nina Barough CBE, Founder and Chief Executive of Walk the Walk said: “I am really delighted to share the news of the recent grant which Walk the Walk has awarded to Make 2nds Count.

“This funding will specifically contribute towards the charity’s ground-breaking Patient Trials Advocate Service. This much-needed service is designed to bring together women with breast cancer, who might not otherwise have had access to clinical trials, and for many of whom this is the last resort of treatment.  

“By collaborating, charities can make such a huge difference to so many people, and we are incredibly proud to be supporting Make 2nds Count and what they achieve in raising awareness and funding research for secondary breast cancer.

“Whilst Walk the Walk supports its own campaigns, grants like this one are very exciting and wonderful to share with Walk the Walk’s fundraisers – I cannot thank these generous and wonderful people enough!”

Make 2nds Count’s PTA service is the first of its kind in the UK, offering fresh hope to patients by connecting them with clinical trials that have the potential to improve outcomes and extend life.

Since its pilot launch in 2021, the PTA service has provided support to over 500 patients, with a remarkable 100% endorsement from those who have experienced the initiative. Furthermore, 95% of patients expressed their willingness to engage in discussions with their clinicians about the possibility of accessing clinical trials.

Patient Trial Advocate, Senior Research Nurse Vivienne Wilson, expressed her enthusiasm for the service, stating, “I’ve been working with Make 2nds Count for over two years now, and I think this service really is one of a kind.

“I enjoy the opportunity to talk to many secondary breast cancer patients, sharing my knowledge with regards to available trials and guiding them to explore their options.”

One such patient is Margaret Irvine, who was diagnosed 8 years ago with secondary (metastatic) breast cancer after an original diagnosis of primary breast cancer 9 years before that.

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Margaret – who is a trained District Nurse and has worked in the community throughout her career -says: “The worst part of being diagnosed was telling my close family – any negative changes are always hard to deal with.

“Finding information is never easy as most of it is very negative or outdated when beginning to research, but I tried my best and the unit I originally attended for treatment was very supportive. As my treatment progressed, I became aware of Make 2nds Count and I started talking to people about the PTA Service.

“Access to the service has given me new hope and support, as well as a new way of opening discussions with my treatment team and allowing myself and others as patients to have more control of the journey we are on. This is the main reason I decided to share my experience with others too.”

Secondary breast cancer, also known as metastatic, advanced, or stage IV breast cancer, claims the lives of 1000 women in the UK each month and is currently affecting 61,000 people, yet it remains a relatively unknown and underrepresented area of research.

The PTA service, which covers the UK with dedicated nurses based in Edinburgh, the Borders, and the Highlands, provides patients with personalised support and information. Patients undergo an initial one-to-one, hour-long phone consultation with specialist nurses who offer guidance on clinical trials, address queries, and assist in searching for suitable trials.

The ultimate goal is to empower patients to discuss clinical trials as a viable part of their treatment pathway.

Nina Barough CBE, Founder and Chief Executive of Walk the Walk adds: “We could not do any of the special work we do without everyone’s help, so sign up now at www.walkthewalk.org for The MoonWalk London on Saturday 18 May and join this incredible fun-filled ‘Fiesta’ of a night. 

“A night which brings people together all putting one foot in front of another to reach their own personal goal of walking a Half or Full Marathon through the night, whilst helping others. Come and see for yourself, it really is breath-taking!”

Make 2nds Count is dedicated to continuing its mission, ensuring that every patient with secondary breast cancer has the knowledge and opportunity to explore clinical trials as an integral part of their treatment journey.

If you are a secondary breast cancer patient who may be interested in clinical trials and the PTA service, please visit our website:

 – https://make2ndscount.co.uk/support/pta

MoonWalk Scotland lights up the night-time streets of Edinburgh

The MoonWalk Scotland returned to the streets of Edinburgh in a blaze of colour last night (Sat 9th Sept).

Women, men and young people wearing brightly decorated bras or colourful “bra t-shirts” set off from Holyrood Park in balmy, late summer temperatures at 11pm, to walk a half or full marathon through the capital. 

Organised by breast cancer charity Walk the Walk, the first MoonWalk Scotland was staged in 2006. Since then, walkers have raised almost £22 million, which is granted across Scotland to help support those living with cancer. 

Walk the Walk recently awarded £50,000 to the charity Cancer Support Scotland, to help reduce the waiting list for Scottish cancer patients and their families, who are in desperate need of emotional and wellbeing support.

Many buildings and landmarks across Edinburgh lit up pink throughout the night in honour of Walk the Walk’s amazing walkers and volunteers.

These included Edinburgh Castle; Camera Obscura, Lloyds on the Mound; Royal Society; Edinburgh; Victoria Quay, Leith, Radisson Blu Hotel, St. Andrew’s House, Prestonfield House Hotel; Edinburgh International Conference Centre.

Rachel Groves (59) from Edinburgh completed the 26.2 miles Full Moon. Rachel was diagnosed with breast cancer in January 2023, having battled for almost a year to be examined in person by her GP.

Rachel said; “I’m chuffed to bits to have completed The MoonWalk with my daughter, sister, nieces and closest friend.

“It was quite an incredible experience: amazing volunteers, very non-traditional Edinburgh weather and a cause we all truly believe in.

“For me, personally, it was particularly humbling to be fundraising knowing that MoonWalk organisers breast cancer charity Walk the Walk funded the unit which treated me at the Western General Hospital in Edinburgh.

“And here I am, less than five months after a mastectomy, walking the walk!“

Fiona Watson, (56) from Elgin, took part in her first Moonwalk, completing the 13.1 miles Half Moon. Fiona has been on constant treatment for secondary breast cancer since 2014.

She said: “Our team thoroughly enjoyed completing the Half Moon. It was uplifting and challenging, amongst many other emotions, and there was a tremendous feeling of unity throughout the night – the organisers and the volunteers were first class from start to finish.

“The warmth we experienced from the city of Edinburgh was immeasurable and we are also quite overwhelmed and humbled by the generosity of all our sponsors.

“By taking part in The MoonWalk, I hope I’ve raised awareness that it is possible for anyone newly diagnosed with breast cancer (or indeed secondary breast cancer) to still lead a relatively normal life.”

Nina Barough CBE, Founder and Chief Executive of Walk the Walk, said: “What an incredible night! It was wonderful to see so many people taking part, including a large number who were totally new to MoonWalking.

“Together, everyone was uniting not only to raise awareness of breast cancer, but also valuable funds which will help improve the lives of people across Scotland living with the disease.

“The collective pink hug from so many iconic buildings across Edinburgh which had lit up pink for the occasion was such a huge boost for our Walkers and Volunteers, as was the unseasonably warm weather!

“Keep helping us make a difference by signing up for The MoonWalk Scotland 2024!” 

Entries are already open for The MoonWalk Scotland on Saturday 7th September 2024. Sign up now www.walkthewalk.org

Breast cancer charity Walk the Walk funds vital support for people across Scotland affected by cancer

Breast cancer charity Walk the Walk has granted £50,000 to help reduce the waiting list for Scottish cancer patients, and their families, who are in desperate need of emotional and wellbeing support.

The funds will allow Cancer Support Scotland, based in the grounds of Glasgow’s Gartnavel Hospital, to provide 174 people with wellbeing support at the time when they need it most. The charity has seen a dramatic increase in referrals recently and is being contacted by up to a dozen new patients from across Scotland every single day.

The current waiting list for appointments is up to 12 weeks. Walk the Walk’s grant will allow people to get vital assistance much sooner, either online or at Cancer Support Scotland’s centre.

·         Counselling – providing patients with the tools to deal with their diagnosis

·         Complimentary therapy – in person sessions, designed with relaxation in mind 

·         Befriending – informal wellbeing calls to help reduce isolation, fear and anxiety

Walk The Walk – Moon Walk – Edinburgh. Picture Shows; Walkers set off from the start line of this years Moon Walk through the street of Edinburgh. Saturday 11 June 2022. ©Stuart Nicol Photography 2022


Entries are now open for The MoonWalk Scotland 2023, organised by breast cancer charity Walk the Walk.

On Saturday 9th September, thousands of women and men wearing decorated bras will set off from Holyrood Park in Edinburgh to walk an overnight half or full marathon through the streets of the capital.

Sign up now at www.walkthewalk.org

Michael MacLennan, Interim CEO of Cancer Support Scotland, said: “We are absolutely delighted to receive a £50,000 grant from Walk the Walk.

“We understand these are challenging times for everyone and these incredible funds will allow us to continue supporting those that need us, when they need us most.

“Each year we continue to see a rapid rise in demand for our services, and thanks to the generosity of Walk the Walk we’ll be able to provide 174 people with 6 vital wellbeing appointments.”

Susan (52) from Glasgow received counselling from Cancer Support Scotland, following her cancer diagnosis. She said: “My mood was very low and I was often feeling anxious. I was also spending a lot of time in my flat, not going out much and felt as if sometimes people didn’t understand why I wasn’t feeling great, as my treatment had ended.

“I didn’t understand that myself if I’m honest. I still struggle at times but I’ve received so much non-judgemental support, motivation, encouragement, and laughter (which is so important) through these sessions.”

Nina Barough CBE, Founder and Chief Executive of breast cancer charity Walk the Walk said: “I was deeply upset to hear about the unacceptable length of time people are having to wait for wellbeing support, following their cancer diagnosis.

“Whilst 12 weeks might not seem very long in some people’s worlds, if you’ve just found out you have cancer, it’s a lifetime!

“In 2023, Walk the Walk is releasing £1 million to help fund innovative support like that provided by Cancer Support Scotland. It’s a tough time for cancer patients across Scotland, so I’m delighted that Walk the Walk has been able help so many people.”

Welcome back, MoonWalk Scotland!

The MoonWalk Scotland made its long-awaited comeback in Edinburgh last night (Sat 11th June).

Women and men wearing brightly coloured bras – many decorated with this year’s “Your Hero” theme – set off from Holyrood Park for this year’s MoonWalk, the first “live” event since 2019.

Those taking part included “Team Holyboobs”, led by Christina McKelvie MSP, who has recently been treated for breast cancer (below). 

Over the last 15 years, this iconic night-time event, organised by breast cancer charity Walk the Walk, has raised almost £22 million. The money is granted across Scotland, to help support those living with cancer.

During the pandemic, Walk the Walk gave £20,000 to the charity Cancer Support Scotland, to help fund its online services.

Previous grants have been made to Maggie’s Centres in Glasgow, Forth Valley and Airdrie and to the Breast Cancer Unit at Edinburgh’s West General Hospital.

Funds have also been given to hospitals across Scotland to purchase Scalp Coolers – amazing machines which help many people undergoing chemotherapy to keep their hair. 

Walk the Walk’s MoonWalk Scotland is back for 2022

  • The MoonWalk Scotland (LIVE): Sat 11th to Sun 12th June 2022
    From Midnight. Starting and Finishing at Holyrood Park
  • 6.55, 13.1, 26,2 or 52.4 miles
  • The MoonWalk Scotland (Virtual): Sat 11th June 2022
  • Daytime, in walkers’ local areas 6.55 miles, 13.1 miles, 26.2 or 52.4 miles
  • Theme: Your Hero!
  • Entries open now at walkthewalk.org​​​​​​​


The 2022 long-awaited MoonWalk Scotland will be back for the first time since 2019, raising money and awareness for those living with breast and other cancers.

This iconic fundraising event on Saturday 11th June is organised by grant-making breast cancer charity Walk the Walk. For the first time ever, the Virtual MoonWalk Scotland will kick off the day, followed by the LIVE MoonWalkers picking up the baton and pounding through the streets of Edinburgh after midnight!

Whilst the cheer and unity of all those taking part will warm the capital pink, they will be joined in spirit by many others across the UK, and the world, helping to make a real difference to the lives of people living with breast and other cancers. Having both a LIVE and Virtual challenge means there is something for everyone to take on a challenge of their choice, in a location of their choice.

Nina Barough CBE, Founder and Chief Executive of Walk the Walk said; “I am absolutely thrilled that The MoonWalk Scotland is back and for the first time in two years bringing people together again.

“This iconic, joyful event creates such an amazing feeling across Edinburgh, filling the streets of the city with colour and fun. Covid has had a devastating impact on those living with cancer and whilst our ability to raise funds has been very limited, we have continued to make smaller grants to charities that really needed help.

“It is so important that people do come together to take part, not only is every step a healthy one for the participant, it will be making a difference to those who need help now.

“We all need something to look forward to, so with the LIVE and Virtual options, it means that friends and family can unite in the cause wherever they are, but choose the option that suits them. And in true Walk the Walk style if many people do their little bit, we can do so much!”

To sign up for The MoonWalk Scotland 2022 or to make a donation go to:

walkthewalk.org

Mobile Lymphoedema Clinic continues operating thanks to cancer charity Walk the Walk

Lewis-Manning Hospice Care is the latest charity working on the frontline to be awarded an Emergency Covid Grant by breast cancer charity Walk the Walk.

Earlier in the year, Lewis-Manning Hospice Care launched a new Mobile Clinic to support and treat cancer patients in Dorset with lymphoedema.

This is a painful side effect of a patient’s cancer treatment, which occurs when the body’s drainage system doesn’t work properly. It can often lead to severe swelling in the arms, legs, feet and other parts of the body, causing mobility problems, acute pain and potentially infections.

The mobile clinic is part of the hospice’s plan to bring its services closer to people’s homes, a particularly important issue for vulnerable cancer patients during the pandemic.

A £21,000 grant from Walk the Walk has meant that the mobile clinic will be able to continue for a further three months, until the end of August 2021. Support has also been shown by AFC Bournemouth, who have allocated space for the unit to park up each week in the car park at the Vitality Stadium.

Clare Gallie, Chief Executive of Lewis-Manning Hospice Care said:  “We are delighted with this support from ‘Walk the Walk’. 

“The pilot has been a great success for Lymphoedema patients over the last 2 months, bringing treatment and services closer to home and giving patients the ability to get to their appointments more easily and receive their vital treatment in a relaxed and stress-free environment.  The extended pilot will allow us to support even more people closer to their homes.

Nina Barough CBE, Founder and Chief Executive of Walk the Walk said: “We are delighted that our grant awarded to Lewis-Manning Hospice Care will allow them to run an extended pilot study on their mobile Lymphoedema Support Unit for June through to August.

“During these very uncertain and worrying times, this charity’s role in providing support “Close to Home” for cancer patients in Dorset is absolutely crucial – lymphoedema can be one of the most painful side effects of cancer treatment.

Grants like these are very exciting news for Walk the Walk’s wonderful fundraisers, who have continued taking part in virtual walking events throughout the pandemic. Thanks to these fantastic people, we can continue helping to make a difference where we can, and where it is needed most.”

Amy Marks, Partnerships Manager at AFC Bournemouth said: “We are so pleased to have the mobile unit on our site as we had heard about the fantastic services that the hospice is bringing out in the community to patients, it’s a real pleasure to host every week.”

To find out more about Walk the Walk and to sign up for Virtual Challenge, go to www.walkthewalk.org

A fun week for all at the Virtual SunWalk Festival

The festival that goes where you go!

With so much continued uncertainty and confusion surrounding summer holidays, it is now even more important than ever to plan events you can count on!

This is one festival that travels with you – The Virtual SunWalk Festival, created by the MoonWalk organisers, breast cancer charity Walk the Walk, is from 31st July – 8th August 2021. All you need to do is sign up for your chosen walking challenge, pack your walking shoes, and take this week-long festival with you wherever you go.

Walk the Walk will be providing a DIY downloadable Festival Kit with fun activities to do and make each day of the week… so get ready to fly your bunting and put those flowers in your hair, it’s festival time with a difference!

Walking has been proven to have so many benefits it is has been quoted as almost the perfect activity to keep fit and healthy, no matter what your age. Research continues to show that being active is proving to be a vital key in the prevention of diseases including breast cancer.

According to the World Cancer Research Fund*, a low level of physical activity alone is responsible for 7.5% of breast cancers and a staggering 25% of breast cancer cases in women are caused by lifestyle choices.

So, holidays, back garden or park, The Virtual SunWalk Festival is just the ticket and has a walking challenge to suit every ability and age – choose between a 5k, 10k or Half Marathon (13.1 miles). For those keen to take on the ultimate walking challenge, complete 100k in one go, or over the week.

Nina Barough CBE, Founder and Chief Executive of Walk the Walk said: “The past 18 months has had an impact on all our lives in one way or another, so Walk the Walk’s Virtual SunWalk Festival is just a wonderful opportunity for families, friends, work colleagues, neighbours and everyone you know, to finally get together, put up the bunting, create their own Start and Finish, cook up some delicious treats to eat at the end of the walk and have some summer fun!

“The impact of Covid on Cancer patients has been devastating, so to create a week where people can reach personal goals, have a great time and where every step contributes towards helping those living with the physical and mental anxieties of cancer… Well, it’s the best!”

To sign up for the Virtual SunWalk Festival or to make a donation go to walkthewalk.org

Men’s Health Week: Breaking Taboos

 Men diagnosed with breast cancer share experiences

During Men’s Health Week, men who have been diagnosed with breast cancer met up to raise awareness. For many of them, it was the first time they had met another man who had been treated for the disease.

These men are part of breast cancer charity Walk the Walk’s Men Get Breast Cancer Too campaign, which includes 24 men.

Men’s Health Week is about encouraging men to be aware of how they can improve their health and to highlight the various symptoms that they should look out for. Breast cancer in men does not feature high on the list – in fact, ask most men and they will tell you that they do not check their chests and many don’t even know that men can get breast cancer.

The signs to look out for are an inverted nipple, a lump behind the nipple, a discharge, reddening or skin dimpling.

For more details of how men should check their chest, click here for a poster specially created by the men and Walk the Walk. Tips include standing in front of a mirror and checking the chest area whilst in the shower.

Mark Winter from Tunbridge Wells was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020. He said: “Until today at the Men Get Breast Cancer Too event I hadn’t met any other men with breast cancer.

“I found it fascinating and actually amazing to have the opportunity to share experiences and talk openly about my breast cancer diagnosis. It has made me realise that the feelings I have been experiencing are the same as other men, I am not on my own.

“For me it was also about seeing that men who have had breast cancer in the past and are still doing well.”

Pam Cleveland from Newark, Nottinghamshire attended today’s gathering with her husband Neil. Both of them have previously been diagnosed with breast cancer. Pam said: “Neil’s never opened up to anybody since he was diagnosed with breast cancer and now he’s opening up so much to these other men, about something which they all have in common.

“I’ve even heard him acknowledge today how hard his diagnosis was for me as his partner and he’s never said that before. Having had breast cancer myself, I’ve experienced both sides of the story. Women do talk to each other more, but now Walk the Walk’s campaign is giving the men the platform to talk too, to share their experiences and to help each other with their unanswered questions.”

Tracey Crouch, the MP for Chatham and Aylesford recently finished her own treatment for breast cancer and is giving her support to the Men Get Breast Cancer Too campaign. She said: “I have used my platform as a politician to encourage people, both women and men, to check their chests.

“I understand how uncomfortable speaking out about breast cancer can be, which is why I have absolute admiration for these men. Working with Walk the Walk they are going out of their comfort zone to literally help save lives. It is also great to see that several charities are working in collaboration to support these amazing men”.

To find out more about Walk the Walk’s Men Get Breast Cancer Too campaign, go to  https://walkthewalk.org/about-us/men-get-breast-cancer-too

Walking to the disco beat at the Virtual MoonWalk Scotland!

With a fun disco theme, fantastic fundraisers turned out in force to Walk the Walk on the streets of Scotland and across the UK on Saturday 12th June, during the first ever Virtual MoonWalk Scotland!

Streets were awash with colourful psychedelic costumes, sparkle and glitter as these amazing walkers put on their boogie walking shoes and took on challenges between 6 and 52 miles in their own areas.

For the first time, The MoonWalk, organised by breast cancer charity Walk the Walk, took place during daylight. Walkers wearing the iconic Walk the Walk bra t-shirts, many with their decorated bras attached to their bumbags, raised an incredible amount of awareness in local communities as they were greeted on the streets by well-wishers!

All the men taking part wore a specially created Men Get Breast Cancer Too t-shirt, with a blue checked bra emblazoned on the front, playing their part ahead of Men’s Health Week.

Walk the Walk is about having fun, raising awareness and raising money. The event brought fun and laughter to thousands, as the walkers brightened up neighbourhoods.

Funds raised will be granted towards the mental and physical support of those living with cancer, to help where possible with the devastating impact that cancer patients have experienced throughout the pandemic.

Kate Brook from Tranent was diagnosed with breast cancer in August 2020 and completed the 13.1 mile Half Moon with Kate’s Dream Team, including her husband Matt and local friends.

Kate (back row, second from left) said: “The Western General Hospital in Edinburgh, where I continue to receive treatment, has benefitted from grants from Walk the Walk and many a time I have looked at their plaque in the waiting room and promised myself that, when I was better, I would be part of The MoonWalk again.

“Today has been amazing – it’s been a real focus for me during my treatment and it has not disappointed – super company, lovely scenery and lots of support from people along the way! We are all delighted to have raised so much money and awareness”. 

Tricia Young from Edinburgh completed her 14th MoonWalk Scotland, walking the 26.2 mile Full Moon. She said: “It was so much fun taking part in the Virtual MoonWalk, I was delighted that this year’s event still happened.

“Since my sister sadly died from breast cancer in 2013, I’ve been really motivated by her memory and the fact that we need to keep on raising awareness of breast cancer. I was walking on my own, but it was wonderful to bump into several other MoonWalkers on the streets of Edinburgh.

“The kindness of local people was so touching – one lady in Portobello even offered me the use of her toilet! I am thrilled to raise so much money too for such a deserving cause, I’ll keep on taking part as long as I can”.

Nina Barough CBE, Founder and Chief Executive of Walk the Walk said: “Whilst we would just love to be at Holyrood Park, hugging our intrepid challengers as they cross the Finish Line, it was not to be this year.

“It is incredibly positive that our first Virtual MoonWalk Scotland has encouraged Walkers and fundraisers across Scotland to take part, as well as people from across the length and breadth of the UK, and indeed countries across the world.

“Well-wishers and supporters on the streets of local communities have been incredibly generous, with much needed fundraising for those living with cancer.

“For many, the focus of training, and preparing for this day, has been an absolute life saver. Once again regular walking has proven to be a lifeline for mental and physical well-being during the ongoing uncertainty of Covid.

“We thank all our fundraisers for raising much needed funds and look forward to being back at Holyrood next year with a live MoonWalk Scotland”! 

To register your interest for The MoonWalk Scotland 2022, go to: 

www.walkthewalk.org

Thousands go ‘Out of this World’ for the Virtual MoonWalk

Thousands of women, men and children accomplished their mission to complete the Virtual MoonWalk London yesterday (Saturday 15th May)!

For the first time, the iconic MoonWalk, organised by breast cancer charity Walk the Walk, took place during daylight, with walkers taking on challenges between 6 and 52 miles in their own areas.

Embracing an “Out of this World” space theme, they raised awareness and money for vital cancer causes, while walking through villages, towns and cities across the UK and beyond.

At The MoonWalks during normal times, women and men proudly wear decorated bras as they take on their Midnight challenges. For the Virtual MoonWalk, walkers carried on the tradition by decorating their bras and many wore them attached to their bumbags.

To mark the occasion, a special bra has been created by Boadicea Design in collaboration with UK Space Agency, the Association for Science and Discovery Centres and signed by astronaut Tim Peake. It is based on the Sokul Suit which is worn by astronauts going up to the International Space Station.

Tim Peake said: “There may be more in common between Walk the Walk and space than you might think. On the International Space Station, we have been researching cancer therapies such as microencapsulation – enabling targeted delivery for effective treatment and fewer side effects. Walk the Walk is a fantastic charity and I’m delighted to support them in their valuable work.”

Now that restrictions are slowly lifting and people are allowed to walk together in small groups, the Virtual MoonWalk was the first opportunity that many had to meet up and walk with friends.

Sara Mudhar from Nuneaton said: “The Divas walked The MoonWalk London in 2019 and had an amazing time. Two years later and we’re finally reunited and walking a MoonWalk again, although it’s not quite the same as being with thousands of other MoonWalkers walking through the night.

“It has been a brilliant day, walking round Rutland Water together, meeting other MoonWalkers and the support from the public has been amazing. How wonderful to do something normal and raising money and awareness for breast cancer at the same time”.

Lin Carey has been taking part in The MoonWalk for more than ten years with the Silsoe Calendar Girls team, walking this year’s event on the streets of Bedfordshire. She said: “Every year is different, it’s always tough but we support each other and, no matter what, we cross the line together.

“I’m a breast cancer survivor, 22 years now, which I find incredible, and I’m very grateful for my treatment and the funds that made it possible. I was lucky, not everyone is.

“We’ve lost friends and family along the way and some are still struggling which is why we keep on walking. We’re relieved to have the opportunity to take part in The MoonWalk again this year – albeit virtually – and turning heads with our decorated bras”!

Jenny Strathern completed her Virtual MoonWalk in Uganda. She said: “I’m thrilled to finish the Virtual MoonWalk London, a goal I set myself to support a cause close to my heart.

“Here in Uganda, I really felt as though I was uniting against cancer and united in spirit with everyone else pounding the streets or lanes across the UK and far further afield. After some heavy rain, the sun finally came out as I walked with some wonderfully supportive friends who tramped through the last muddy kilometres towards our goal, an old swimming pool in the north east corner of the sugar estate where we live.

“My message to Walk the Walk is to continue to do the wonderful work you do and be encouraged by the difference all our combined efforts can make. We are united against breast cancer despite the miles that separate us!”  

Gordon McLagan from Livingston, West Lothian said: “I walked with my sons Christopher and Peter in memory of my sister Linda who we sadly lost to breast cancer in 2017.

“We were planning to do The MoonWalk London in 2020, but due to it being postponed and the recent relaxation of travel restrictions we were able to meet-up in Manchester. Despite the rain, what an enjoyable marathon we have had, it has been wonderful to spend time with the boys”.

Walk the Walk the Walk’s Ambassador, actress Harriet Thorpe took part in the Virtual MoonWalk London, with friends including TV and Radio presenter Gaby Roslin and actor Tom Read Wilson.

She said: “It was an absolute joy to be out walking through London with friends and family again, cheering on other MoonWalkers along the way with a virtual high-five, and even finding time for a sing-song, all to support the work of this wonderful charity.

“Who could ask for anything more?! A welcome taste of normality: and let’s hope we’re all back together in our thousands next year!”

Nina Barough CBE, Founder and Chief Executive of Walk the Walk said: “With so much continuing uncertainty, late last year, Walk the Walk decided to hold a Virtual MoonWalk. We had no idea if it would work, or if it would be successful, we just wanted to promise this special day, without risk of it being cancelled.

“So, today is a day for celebration, with women, men and children walking and fundraising all over the country and indeed the world. As we could not  actually be with all our amazing MoonWalkers, the Walk the Walk Team spent today phoning as many walkers as possible, to support them, and to share their journey.

“We heard the most inspirational and heart-warming stories, MoonWalkers meeting fellow MoonWalkers, giving virtual high-fives and uniting with our very special Walk the Walk camaraderie……it has been truly wonderful!”

The Virtual MoonWalk London is on its way to reaching its £1 million target. The money will be granted to help support frontline cancer charities.

To register your interest for The MoonWalk London 2022, go to:  www.walkthewalk.org