Why Macmillan?

In my years of helping people achieve their health and fitness goals, I’ve seen first hand how crucial a strong support system is for their wellbeing.

Macmillan Cancer Support is a charity that embodies this principle in the most profound way.

Care and support

Macmillan is not just a charity; it’s a lifeline for those affected by cancer. They provide essential medical, practical and emotional support, ensuring that no one has to face cancer alone. From diagnosis through treatment and beyond, Macmillan’s comprehensive approach helps patients and their families navigate the complex and often overwhelming cancer journey.

The important work of Macmillan

What makes Macmillan’s work so vital is their holistic support network. They offer financial advice to help manage the additional costs that cancer can bring, counselling services for emotional support, and community resources to keep patients connected and informed.

Their dedicated nurses, support workers and volunteers work tirelessly to improve the quality of life for cancer patients, making a real difference every day.

MacMillan Mighty Hike Marathon

I’m actually really nervous to share this…but I’ve entered the MacMillan Mighty Hike Marathon on Saturday 14th Sept 2024 in Northumberland and Yorkshire 3 Peaks in 12 hours on 21st September…Eeekkkk! 

I’ve chosen this in memory of some really special people, clients and the greatest of friends who have lost loved ones to cancer, especially over the last year. Thank you for all the donations so far, I can’t tell you how much it means, to overcome many fears and manage lots, I hope it helps you following the journey.

My prep stages include Saturn Running 10km walk/jog, Stylist Big Trek 22km 20th July, open water Aquathlon BIG test on 25th July and 4th August, if body and brain ok. Followed by Spartan Beast Half Marathon and obstacles, very scared for this one on 11th August. Then long walks and climbs until 14th September, I may add another half marathon around the 24th or 30th August, to be confirmed.

In a previous life chapter I ran marathons for fun…however the most recent life chapter has involved a lot of medical things, meaning I have just managed to do around 10km of walking on a good day after 2.5 years of rehab. 

There is no guarantee I will reach 26.2 miles, or even 3 miles, it depends on the day and how my lymph, vascular and neurology fairs. Some days it’s great, and others I don’t move at all – so if I don’t complete and you have donated, I will make it happen some time….I also plan to do some parkruns, a half marathon walk, climb some hills and other little challenges along the way.

However, I realised I was living too safely, scared of what may happen. We only get one life, I would rather live it wholeheartedly every day than half heartedly for a long time…Northumberland is a place I have fallen in love with, it’s wide expanse of beaches and golden skyline, many hours have been walked making sense of life, so it seemed the best place to do this challenge.

So whilst anything isn’t possible, something is…so I have entered, and will keep you posted on my journey from training to medical.

If the journey helps raise money, give hope and possibilities to even one person, it will be worth it.

I have pledged to raise £924 – I have a crazy idea that if we reach £9k it gives 9 weeks of nurse home support which is invaluable and hits my little business £100k of fundraising in 21 years…. I mean who knows). Times are challenging, so any support, a message, share, or just £1 is truly appreciated and valued.

Each training walk and strength session, each medical test I will have the thoughts of those I truly care about in my heart and soul, and all those affected by cancer, for what a ride it is.

If I can help or support you in anyway – Coaching, 1;1 online plans, workshops and talks please do reach out, comment, share and know, however dark the moments seem, the brightest stars shine in the darkest nights.

A previous blog may help those struggling with adapting to what fitness and health mean, in general, after injury or illness or reframing of perspective. Click here to read the blog.

To brave lives, resilience, joy and golden moments.

With all my energised support and thanks,
Kim

Any donations or shares on my Mighty Hike JustGiving is SO appreciated and I will take all your messages and donations with me every step of the way…. any donation makes all the difference. Thank YOU.

Learn more about Macmillan here. 

Learn more about the Northumberland Might Hike here.