Giving back

Wednesday 29th August 2007

This year nearly 2,000 of you took part in the Breast Cancer Care Ribbon Walks and many others held strawberry teas, sponsored walkers and so much more to raise money for our favourite charity.

Read more inspiring stories in our fundraisers' gallery.

Five women share their moving stories on what motivated them to complete the Ribbon Walk together.

Paula Everitt, 48, lives in Ampthill with husband Steve and three children Jaime, 19, Georgina, 15, and Liam, 8.
My aunt had breast cancer and had a double mastectomy. She's been clear for 16 years now and when I told her about the walk she was so supportive and I remembered her words of encouragement when I was struggling to make the last mile.

Annette Turner, 46, lives in Ampthill, Bedfordshire with her husband Peter and their two daughters Emma, 11, and Lucy, 9.
I walked for my friend Nora, but also another friend Claire, who was diagnosed with terminal breast cancer at 42 and seven months pregnant, with a two year old already. She died when her second child was 11 months old. I've tried to be around for the children and to support her husband who has soldiered on without her. When Sandra suggested we do the walk it seemed a positive way to support Nora and to remember Claire.

Dee Phelps, 47, lives in Southampton with husband Michael and their children Charlotte, 18, and George, 15.
My mother and mother-in-law both died of cancer so I thought about them both on the day of the walk. It meant a lot to Michael to see me getting involved. I only knew three of the women before the walk, but by the end we were all firm friends, showing our admiration for our mutual friend Nora.

Sandra Evans, 46, lives in Ampthill, Bedfordshire, with husband Jonathan, and sons Oliver, 11 and Alex, 6.
My friend Nora was diagnosed with breast cancer two years ago. After a lumpectomy, she had three bouts of chemotherapy. Seeing Nora fight so hard has been painful but inspiring. My mother died of cancer. so I've seen the worst-case scenario. Nora is a real figure of hope for each of us, that breast cancer can be overcome.

Debra Bradley, 45, lives in Ampthill with husband Dave and their sons, Jed, 2, and Ben, 9.
We all stayed in the same hotel, and in the evening after the walk we went for dinner with Nora, who didn't walk, but she made a speech, thanking us for our support. It was very emotional and I couldn't help but cry. I've been inspired by Nora's courage and I'm so grateful to have been able to take part in such an amazing event.

Go to our fundraisers' gallery to read more of your inspiring stories

Thinking of doing the walk year? Get in training and meet others with our w&h Walking Clubs forum.

See a full index of Breast Cancer Care or discuss similar topics on our forum