Tag: Walk the Walk

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

Lift off! Space Bra launches countdown to the Virtual MoonWalk

The MoonWalk London is going virtual this Saturday (15th May), with the theme “Out of this World”. In a space mission like no other, a special “Space Bra” has been created to mark the occasion. 

The 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.”

Another fascinating coincidence is that the first spacesuits were too rigid and bulky and NASA started a search to find a solution. This was found at Playtex – producers of bras and girdles – a previous sponsor of The MoonWalk!  And so Playtex seamstresses were part of the manufacture of the softer, more flexible Apollo spacesuits which followed.  

Decorated bras are the unique and fun trade-mark of MoonWalk organisers, grant making breast cancer charity Walk the Walk and have been instrumental in the charity raising over £133 million for research and vital breast cancer causes.

At The MoonWalks women and men proudly wear decorated bras as they take on their Midnight challenges. For the Virtual MoonWalk, walkers are carrying on the tradition by decorating their bras and many will be wearing them attached to their bumbags.

The bras worn at the very start of the Walk the Walk journey were auctioned and raised a lot of money. But since then Walk the Walk has been working on a collection which can be featured in exhibitions to raise even more awareness that breast cancer is not selective and can affect anybody.

Alison ‘Bod’ Stephenson at Boadicea Design said: “As a designer and maker I have produced a number of Sokul Suit ‘replica’ costumes in partnership with UK Space Agency and Association for Science and Discovery Centres.

“These were first used to promote exhibitions in science centres across the UK when astronaut Tim Peake travelled to the International Space Station in December 2015. Taking colours and details from the Sokul Suit design, I have created the Space Bra Outfit, which has been a fun project with a serious message. I’m delighted to support Walk the Walk and help raise awareness of breast cancer.” 

Dr Alice Bunn, International Director at the UK Space Agency, said: “Collaboration is the cornerstone of space exploration and it is only by working together that we will be able to beat breast cancer.

“We’re delighted with the outfit inspired by Tim Peake’s spacesuit. Having completed The MoonWalk before, I know what an inspirational event it is and I hope as many people as possible will take part, raising vital funds and enjoying a wonderful experience.”

Shaaron Leverment, CEO (Acting) of the ASDC said: “At the UK Association for Science and Discovery Centres we have a vision to support people of all ages, genders, background and experiences to be involved in the sciences.

“This one-of-a-kind Space bra is truly ‘Out of this World’ and does just that! An eye-catching design that will no doubt capture the attention and imagination of all who see it, raising awareness that breast cancer affects everybody and inspiring more people to get involved in Walk the Walk.

“We are very proud to be part of this wonderful, creative collaboration and the important message behind it.”​​​​​​​

Fundraisers Walk to the disco beat as they unite to raise £1 million!

The iconic MoonWalk Scotland is going virtual on 12 June 2021!

Whilst walkers may not be uniting in Holyrood Park and swathing Edinburgh in pink for this year’s MoonWalk, they will be taking its kaleidoscope of colours and funky disco theme far and wide, as people of all ages and abilities step out into towns and villages across Scotland and the UK.

With four different Power Walking distances – 6.55 miles/ 13.1 miles/ 26.2 miles/ 52.4 miles – there really is something for everyone, from the absolute novice to the ardent walker, all Walking towards raising £1 million for cancer.

Nina Barough CBE, Founder and Chief Executive of Walk the Walk, organisers of the MoonWalk said: “The MoonWalk Scotland is such an iconic highlight of Walk the Walk’s year, creating an incredible buzz across Edinburgh and filling the streets of the city with colour and fun.

“For the health and safety of our supporters and fundraisers, we’re unable to meet at Holyrood Park this year, but Covid-19 cannot stop cancer, and it’s not stopping us. I’m just so excited that we are gathering such wonderful support and that supporters are uniting in their own areas, for our first daytime Virtual MoonWalk Scotland.

“We are thrilled that fundraisers can now walk together in small groups, creating the wonderful camaraderie that brings, and to help raise £1 million of much needed funds.

“Due to the devastating impact that Covid-19 has had on those living with cancer, this will allow us to continue providing vital support where it is needed most, to frontline cancer services.

“Thanks to walkers putting one foot in front of the other, we’ll be able to make more grants to charities like Cancer Support Scotland, who received £20,000 from Walk the Walk to fund their vital online support services.

“We know that many people doing a little bit can be a powerful force …so let’s generate that power across Scotland and the UK in true Walk the Walk spirit!”

So look out for MoonWalkers on June 12th, who will be wearing the unique Walk the Walk ‘Bra T-shirts’, and creating an inspirational movement across the country!

Walkers are being encouraged to decorate their disco-themed decorated bras, and attach them to their bum bags as a sign of unity and support as they take on their challenges.

Walking has often been described as almost the perfect form of exercise. It can build overall fitness at any age, help maintain mental and physical wellbeing, including weight loss, as well as being a great aid to prevention against disease.

With gyms and leisure centres forced to close during the pandemic, many people have started walking for the first time, and realising not only how much they enjoy it, but the many benefits that it holds. Walking is one of the most flexible forms of exercise around – just step out of your front door and go! 

Whilst The MoonWalk is traditionally held overnight, as Walk the Walk is not there to look after everyone, this year there will be various start times during the day, to be confirmed closer to the date.

All walkers and supporters should observe government social distancing guidelines during their own Virtual MoonWalk Scotland.

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

walkthewalk.org

Walk the Walk funds vital mental health support for those affected by cancer in Scotland

Cancer Support Scotland is the latest charity working on the frontline to be awarded an Emergency Grant by breast cancer charity Walk the Walk.

Nina Barough, Walk the Walk’s Founder and Chief Executive, was so concerned about the effect COVID-19 was having on the lives of those affected by cancer, she felt Walk the Walk really had to do something to help.

The £20,000 grant from Walk the Walk will help Cancer Support Scotland sustain the equivalent of two full time counsellors and their Lead Therapist for nearly three full months. In that time, those roles alone will be able to offer at least 540 mental wellbeing support sessions to people who are struggling to cope with cancer.

The pandemic has had a devastating effect on the lives of those affected by cancer and their families. Many are shielding, isolated, have money worries, treatments postponed, all resulting in anxiety. Loneliness is another key issue and it is more crucial than ever that the mental wellbeing support provided by Cancer Support Scotland is maintained at its current level over the coming months.

From the start of the pandemic, Cancer Support Scotland have been contacting thousands of vulnerable people by phone, providing a lifeline. As the months passed, the need for support services has increased, but at the same time like other charities, their fundraising has almost ceased.

With their headquarters in Glasgow currently closed, Cancer Support Scotland are now offering digital counselling and virtual stress management courses. This is addition to a wellbeing call service and a wide range of online self-care tools to help people cope with cancer today and in the future.

Maureen Thompson was diagnosed with lung cancer in March and had lifesaving surgery four weeks later as Scotland was in lockdown due to Covid-19. She accessed Cancer Support Scotland’s counselling service by telephone in the months after surgery.

Maureen said: “I don’t think I would have got through this without their help, I was so worried about not coming through it. I was in such a low mood when I got in touch with Cancer Support Scotland but thanks to my Counsellor Natalie, I got through my darkest days.

“Without them I wouldn’t have got where I am today. I could tell them anything that I was feeling. I am eternally grateful to Natalie for her help. Thank you to all of you.”

Nina Barough CBE, Founder and Chief Executive of Walk the Walk, said: “During these very uncertain and worrying times, the team at Cancer Support Scotland have provided a vital lifeline for those affected by cancer and their families.

“The services offered by this wonderful charity are supporting the emotional wellbeing for those with cancer, and in these times of crisis, are needed more than ever.

“Walk the Walk is delighted that this Emergency Grant will enable Cancer Support Scotland to meet the growing demand for their online services, and hope that in the not too distant future, when their centre can safely open again, this online resource will continue to offer a vital service to those that need it.”

Rob Murray, CEO Cancer Support Scotland said: “I could not be prouder of the hard work and dedication the Wellbeing Team at Cancer Support Scotland have shown throughout this pandemic.

“It has been a challenging and difficult time but we know we have been able to offer a critical service to those affected by cancer across Scotland. It is with huge thanks to Walk the Walk for gifting us an Emergency Grant that we will be able to continue supporting people across Scotland whenever they need us.”

Cancer charities join together to raise awareness that Men Get Breast Cancer Too

Breast cancer charity Walk the Walk has brought together a global group of charities, collaborating to spread awareness that Men Get Breast Cancer Too. Together the charities’ goal is to reach millions of people across the world with the aim of saving lives.

Cancer charities from all over the UK have committed to supporting Walk the Walk’s campaign:- Maggie’s started in Scotland and supports people with cancer across the UK; Tenovus Cancer Care is a Welsh charity, focusing on support and research; FACT (Fighting All Cancers Together) helps people with cancer in the North East of England; Penny Brohn UK works across the country from its base in Bristol; Action Cancer provides early detection, support and prevention services in Northern Ireland; CoppaFeel creates awareness about breast cancer amongst young people across the UK; UK charity Breast Cancer Now funds research and care, providing support and hope; Breast Cancer Haven is a UK charity, offering emotional, physical and practical support to anyone affected by breast cancer.

They are joined by the Male Breast Cancer Coalition, an American awareness and campaigning charity.

In 2017, Walk the Walk recognised that there was very little awareness of male breast cancer and with the support of six men diagnosed with the disease, launched the Men Get Breast Cancer Too! campaign.

Over the last three years the campaign has gone from strength to strength, with the six men becoming nineteen. As the charities come together, the men’s voices will be heard even louder.    



“It is an absolute privilege to work with these incredibly brave men, who have found the courage to speak out, with the hope that it will save lives. Their voice can be so much stronger if charities come together on this, and to see such a collaboration between charities is such a positive message in these challenging times.” – Nina Barough CBE, Founder and Chief Executive of Walk the Walk

“We are delighted to be working with Walk and Walk and all other partner charities to raise awareness of breast cancer in men. Our centres are for anyone living with cancer and see the fullest possible range of cancer types, ages and situations, but sadly not a lot of men with breast cancer. I would love to see many more come through the doors of our centres and benefit from our professional practical, emotional and psychological support.” – Dame Laura Lee, Chief Executive of Maggie’s

“In our work supporting cancer patients in the North East, we have only known two men who have had breast cancer. Sadly, both of them found out about their cancer too late and are no longer with us. Awareness of breast cancer in men is crucial and that is why FACT is delighted to support this campaign” – Joanne Smith, Founder and Chief Executive of FACT (Fighting All Cancers Together)

“Men in Wales get breast cancer, too. It can be a particularly lonely illness. Tenovus Cancer Care are therefore delighted to be working with Walk the Walk and others across the UK – not least a wonderful and pioneering group of men – to get the word out to save men’s lives. We can provide support and advice in Wales, so if you or someone you know is affected by male breast cancer, do get in touch.” – Judi Rhys, Chief Executive, Tenovus Cancer Care

“Men get breast cancer too is such a crucial message. Giving men the confidence to speak up and find support is vital in the help to save more lives. We are thrilled to be partnering with Walk and Walk and all other partner charities to raise awareness of breast cancer in men. Penny Brohn UK is welcoming a growing number of men seeking emotional and practical support to help them live well with cancer.

“Anything we can do to encourage more men to check their chest and to seek help is invaluable” – Andrew Hufford, Commercial Director, Penny Brohn UK

“We are delighted to be partnering with Walk the Walk and the other cancer charities in this pan UK initiative to raise awareness of breast cancer in men. Action Cancer is passionate about breast cancer.

“We first introduced breast cancer screening for women in 1978, a lifesaving service that continues today, but one that is now supplemented by the provision of information, advice and an extensive range of therapeutic interventions for both women and men with the disease.

“We look forward, through this great collaborative initiative, to raising in Northern Ireland the awareness and profile of male breast cancer and to providing for men impacted by the disease the much needed psychological and physiological help required” – Gareth Kirk, CEO, Action Cancer

“Our mission is to ensure that all breast cancers are diagnosed early and correctly, which is why we are delighted to be a part of Walk the Walk’s campaign to ensure that men are not excluded from the conversation. Whatever your gender, getting to know your body is important so you’re in the best position to notice any changes at an early stage, and see your doctor about it.” – Natalie Kelly, Chief Executive, CoppaFeel

“It is vital that all men are aware of the signs and symptoms of the disease, and know what to do should they notice a change. At Breast Cancer Now, we fund research into male breast cancer as well as providing trusted information to those affected by the disease.

“We are delighted to support this campaign and the nineteen men affected by breast cancer who are sharing their stories and experience as part of it. Anyone who has questions or concerns about male breast cancer can contact us for support and information.” – Baroness Delyth Morgan, Chief Executive at Breast Cancer Now

“We are absolutely delighted to be joining Walk the Walk’s Men Get Breast Cancer Too! campaign. Raising awareness of breast cancer in men is vital and we are thrilled to be collaborating with the other partner charities to get this important message out there. 

“Breast Cancer Haven provides vital support to anyone affected by breast cancer, and we want men affected by the disease to know that we are here for them too. We want to do all we can to ensure men with breast cancer get the help and support they need.” – Sally Hall, Chief Executive at Breast Cancer Haven

“It is wonderful to work with Walk the Walk and fantastic that charities in the UK are also collaborating to raise even more awareness of male breast cancer. Educating people across America and the world that breast cancer does not discriminate and that Men Have Breasts Too! is what we are all about!” – Cheri Ambrose, Founder of the Male Breast Cancer Coalition

Walk the Walk’s SunWalk Festival: Real fun in the virtual world!

Grant-making breast cancer charity Walk the Walk has announced a week long Virtual SunWalk Festival to be held from 8th – 15th August.

This really is a virtual event with a difference, there is a walking challenge to suit everybody of any ability or age, tips and advice on how to achieve the goal and a DIY Festival Kit to download … not to mention lots of inspiration and motivation!

The charity will provide those signing up with lots of downloadable fun ideas, recipes for healthy snacks, including delicious lollies and smoothies, bunting and games to play.

Everybody can start planning and getting creative, maybe taking part in one of the shorter distances and finishing with a romantic picnic for two, a BBQ with family or friends or involving young children in the activities, following government guidelines, of course.

Women, men and children are being encouraged to sign up and make the SunWalk Festival Experience a special date in their summer diaries. What a wonderful way to get fitter and get rid of lockdown fatigue plus have fun and at the same time raise money to help cancer charities working on the front line – every mile walked and every penny raised will make a difference.

Walk the Walk has committed to making £20,000 Emergency Grants every month until the end of the year to charities who are struggling to keep going.

Walkers can choose between a 5k,10k, Half Marathon (13.1 miles, 21k) and a Full Marathon (26.2 miles, 42k) or for those that want an extra bite … a 100k challenge to walk in one go or over the 7 days. As a reward for completing the challenge, walkers will receive a downloadable certificate and a fantastic medal.

With experts predicting the return of COVID-19 in the autumn, there is no better time to get fit and healthy. By taking part in the Virtual SunWalk Festival, not only will people be improving their physical health but their mental health too.

Nina Barough CBE, Founder and Chief Executive of Walk the Walk said: “Walk the Walk is famous for not just organising events, but experiences, so we wanted our Virtual Challenges to have that same unique flavour.

“Raising money at this time is vital for us, but after months of self-isolating and social distancing, this is an opportunity for families and friends to come together and have fun, whilst doing so much good for those with cancer.

“By having an event that has 5 different challenges, there really is something for every age and ability. I hope that we can inspire many people to get back into shape by walking. The SunWalk Festival really is where virtual meets reality, people can let their imaginations run wild, come together and share a new positive experience whilst getting fitter!”

Due to the coronavirus, Walk the Walk have sadly postponed some of their events including The MoonWalk London, The MoonWalk Scotland and The MoonWalk Iceland.

Visit www.walkthewalk.org for updates and to find out more about the charity.

Walk the Walk to provide emergency grants for frontline cancer services

Walk the Walk’s supporters have continued to fundraise through the 2.6 challenge and its own virtual MoonWalk Celebration Road Trip

Grant-making charity Walk the Walk is stepping in with emergency grants to support frontline cancer charities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The charity’s Founder and Chief Executive Nina Barough is so concerned about the effect on the lives of cancer patients during the past three months, she felt Walk the Walk really had to do something to try and help.

Walk the Walk’s own fundraising has been massively affected by the pandemic, with the postponement of its events, including The MoonWalk Scotland and The MoonWalk London, where millions of pounds would normally be raised in one night. However Walk the Walk’s supporters have continued to fundraise through the 2.6 challenge and its own virtual “MoonWalk Celebration Road Trip”, raising almost £100,000.

Nina and the charity are very excited to announce they will be making ‘Emergency Grants’ to the value of £20,000 each month to frontline cancer charities, until the end of the year.

The grants will only be made to organisations which are involved in delivering services and support directly to cancer patients. Even a few thousand pounds could make a huge difference in keeping services running at this time.

The effects of the pandemic have been enormous for those diagnosed with cancer. Cancer surgery has fallen to around 60 % of expected levels and 6,000 fewer cancer patients than expected are receiving chemotherapy*. Many people are also being forced to go through treatment on their own. Loneliness is one of the key issues for which frontline cancer charities provide support.

Local cancer services and helplines are being overwhelmed and many having little or no funding coming in, due to their normal sources of fundraising having stopped.

Nina Barough CBE, Walk the Walk’s Founder and Chief Executive said; “After working passionately for the last 23 years to raise money to improve the lives of those living with cancer and for research into breast cancer, it is distressing to see the situation that many cancer patients have found themselves in.

“I really felt that we should do something no matter what and came up with the idea of providing emergency grants. The main aim of these grants is to give charities funding to get them through the next few months, and hopefully allow them some breathing space, so that they can support those who really need it”.

*Cancer Research UK, June 2020