We did it! Walked up hill and down dale in the Derbyshire Peak District for 10 miles to raise funds for Breast Cancer Care. Didn't get to wear the bright pink t shirts though, they were reserved for those gallant beings who undertook the 20 mile route.

Never mind, maybe next year.

A showery start gave way to sunshine over the beautiful landscape, well, we did order it! I basked in the energy and company of my beautiful daughter, and a pleasant time was had by all.

As we hit the finishing line and were handed our medals a representative of Woman and Home magazine took pictures and asked why we had undertaken the walk. Our response was, "Just because.... We are women, and mother and daughter, (a good bonding exercise), and it's a brilliant cause".

On reflection I realise that as we walked I recalled the memory of a wonderful woman I am honoured to have called my friend. Her humour and compassion touched the lives of so many people, until she lost her life to breast cancer eight years ago.

So many people have similar tales to tell of their amazingly special friends, associates, and family members whose lives have been touched by breast cancer, though thankfully, we also know of others who have survived to live normal, happy lives. We each have our own stories, which, I guess is why 1200 individuals made that walk last Saturday.

Thanks to you all who contributed, and sponsored both Laura and myself as I raise a glass to everyone who took part, and, in memory of my friend and guiding star. To Jill, may God bless you x

www.breastcancercare.org.uk

Bluebell Wood is a charity raising funds to build a dedicated children's hospice to serve families living in the South Yorkshire and North Midlands area. Currently in this catchment alone there are over 200 children suffering from life-limiting and terminal conditions, who are not receiving the support and care that they need.

Our charity came into being following the death of a young boy, Richard Cooper. Richard was diagnosed with a rare degenerative disease, Ataxia Telangiectasia, the effects of which quickly led to increasing disability. In October 1995 Richard also developed cancer and in the following 17 months endured frequent hospital admissions and intensive treatments with unpleasant side effects.

During the final weeks of his life both Richard and his Mum wanted to avoid going back into the stressful hospital environment. Remaining in their home they faced long exhausting and anxious days and nights. They were unable to get adequate professional support or practical help, at the time when they most needed it.

Through their own strength, determination and courage they achieved their wishes and on 13th March 1997, aged just 11 years, Richard died peacefully at home.

Unfortunately our hospice couldn't be named after Richard Cooper, as there is already a Richard House Children's Hospice in London. In 2001 a site was acquired at St Catherine's, Doncaster, and when visiting the land it was covered with Bluebells. From this our name 'Bluebell Wood' was born. In dedication to Richard Cooper, 'The Richard Foundation' will always be our registered charity name and it is this that is building Bluebell Wood. In 2004 plans for the hospice were rejected by Doncaster Town Planners and a new site was identified at Dinnington.