A Paulton man’s wish to raise funds for the new Cancer Centre at Bath’s Royal United Hospital (RUH) has been fulfilled by his wife and a group of footsore friends and family.
Marilyn Weeks and her group of friends walked the 84-mile length of Hadrian’s Wall in memory her husband Ray, who was treated for cancer at the RUH between 2014 and 2016 before passing away.
They’ve raised £8,966 for the RUH Cancer Care Campaign from their week-long coast to coast trek.
Marilyn said: “Ray was diagnosed with terminal cancer in 2015 following a year of treatment for a non-life threatening form of cancer. During his illness he had received treatment and support from both the RUH and the Macmillan Hospice staff.
“He wanted to give something back for all the help he had received and asked myself and my sister if we would do a sponsored walk to raise money for the new Cancer Centre at the RUH.
“After he passed away, we decided to walk the Hadrian’s Wall path as we thought this would be challenging and would raise the much-needed funds for the hospital.
“Alongside my sister and I, we had two more relations and four good friends join us on the walk. The whole experience is something the eight of us will all remember.
“It was emotional, challenging and very rewarding knowing that we were doing it for such a good cause.
“I know my husband would be very proud of us, and grateful to all the family members, friends and strangers who gave us such support during our fundraising events and the walk itself. Thank you everyone.”
Marilyn, her sister Carol, Pam, Caroline, Debbie, Tessa, Kirsteen and Dee presented the cheque for £8,966 to the Forever Friends Appeal at the RUH.
Laura Pearce, Senior Events Fundraiser, The Forever Friends Appeal said: “We are so thankful to Marilyn and her walking group – fondly known as ‘Ray’s Hadrian’s Wall Walkers.’
“They have all worked so hard to achieve so much, not only completing this difficult route but also raising an amazing amount of money along the way.
“Ray’s memory will benefit so many others affected by cancer, and we hope knowing this provides Marilyn, her family and friends with some small comfort.”
Through support from the public and major donations, The Forever Friends Appeal continues its Cancer Care campaign hoping to generate over £9m towards the building.
To make a donation or find out about the new Cancer Centre visit: www.foreverfriendsappeal.co.uk/ruhcancercentre.
