Walking with purpose in 2024.

I couldn't imagine what it must be like to walk a mile in the shoes of a cancer sufferer. But I am willing to walk 100+ miles in their honour.

As we approach the end of the year, many people are gearing up to make New Year's resolutions, promising positive changes and personal growth starting 1st January. However, for me, the decision to embark on a meaningful journey and give back to the community couldn't wait until the calendar flipped to a new year.

Recently, I had an eye-opening experience that inspired me to take action immediately. I was privileged to visit Springboard in Chippenham, a school dedicated to supporting children with special needs and their families. The visit profoundly impacted me, igniting a desire to challenge myself and contribute to a cause greater than myself. It got me thinking about the power of now and the immediate difference we can make in the lives of others.?

Fast forward a week or so, and I found myself convincing my brother, Gregg Bartlett , to join me in a challenge: walking over 100 miles in four days. This journey is not only a personal test of endurance but a heartfelt tribute to our mother, whom we lost to cancer several years ago. Our walk is dedicated not only to her memory but also to the countless individuals currently fighting the battle against cancer.

While we can't understand what it's like to walk a mile in the shoes of those facing cancer, we are committed to walking over 100 miles in their honour. Our mission goes beyond personal achievement; it aims to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support, an organisation tirelessly working to make a difference in the lives of those affected by cancer.

The walk, scheduled for 10th May 2024, will span from our mother's birthplace in Worthing to where she bravely faced and lost her battle—Chippenham, Wiltshire. The final leg of our journey will be particularly poignant, as our children (her grandchildren) and others will join us to walk the last miles on what would have been our mother's birthday, 13th May.

Now, you might be wondering why I'm sharing this with you. It's simple—by making my commitment public, I'm ensuring I can't back out ??. But more importantly, I'm reaching out to this network for support. If you can spare anything, your contribution will be immensely appreciated. I won't inundate you with weekly requests for donations, but I will keep you updated on our progress through training and during the event itself.

Cancer sucks and is, unfortunately, something that has touched the lives of too many of us. While our 100-mile walk is insignificant against the impact of cancer, the funds we raise will support the incredible work of Macmillan Cancer Support. Every step we take is a step towards making the lives of those affected a little easier.

Thank you for reading, and If you would like to read a little more about the walk and/or donate – please go to: https://www.justgiving.com/page/aidan-bartlett-walkforlesley?utm_medium=fundraising&utm_content=page%2Faidan-bartlett-walkforlesley&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=pfp-share

Stay tuned for updates, and let's take this journey together.