Walkers go the extra mile to raise funds for women's health
An intrepid group of friends undertook a 20-mile walk from Callington to Derriford Hospital at the weekend to raise funds for the Gynae Oncology Unit. The group, led by Kay Barriball, aimed to support women's health services by enhancing the facilities and care provided to patients. Kay, who underwent surgery for a cancer diagnosis three years ago, emphasized the personal significance of the walk:
"Our walking group consists of a group of friends who have either been directly affected by one of the gynaecological cancers—or who have relations or close friends affected, and who have benefitted by the excellent care provided by the Gynae Oncology team at Derriford Hospital."
The walk started at 6am from Callington, passing through Harrowbarrow, Cotehele Quay, and Calstock. After a train ride from Calstock to Bere Alston, the group continued on foot through Bere Ferrers, Lopwell Dam, Tamerton Foliot, and Southway, arriving at Derriford just before 6pm.
Kay said: "It's just been a fantastic day, we're up to over six thousand pounds now on our JustGiving page so we're all rather overwhelmed by the support we've had. But it's not just about the financial side of it, we hope we've increased awareness of women's gynae cancers and if just one woman goes and gets herself sorted as a result of seeing us walking today, then that's a positive result.
Welcoming the walkers at Derriford was Gynaelogical Oncology nurse Nikki Calder: "I can't believe. I'm blown away by what they've done today and how much they've raised. We will put the money to good use and we'll think carefully how to spend it on improving patients' care and making people's lives better."
The "Walk for Women's Health" not only aimed to raise funds but also to highlight the importance of women's health services, demonstrating the community's commitment to supporting local healthcare initiatives.
Watch the video of the walkers finishing at Derriford on YouTube by following this link:
