Big strides for cancer care

Our second Stride for Cancer Care, which took place in October, saw cancer patients, cancer survivors and those walking in memory of loved ones, come together to raise an incredible £45,000 to support world class cancer care. 

Sponsored by CBRE, 185 walkers took part in the event choosing from four distances – 5km, 10km, 15km and the ultimate challenge, 25km – with the longer routes taking in stunning views of the North Down’s Way and the Hog’s Back. 

The money raised will make a huge difference to people living with cancer. As well as providing vital equipment, Royal Surrey Charity supports the redevelopment and refurbishment of wards to ensure the environment is welcoming and comfortable for patients, funds groundbreaking research, and invests in staff wellbeing and development.

Dr Sophie Otter, Chief of Service for Oncology, walked the 25km, along with other colleagues from St Luke’s Cancer Centre. Speaking at the event, she said:

“We want to make sure St Luke’s is the most stress-free environment for patients who are going through really stressful occasions in their lives. Some of the money from today will go towards helping us develop some of those nicer bits – to make it a more peaceful environment – and also for some equipment and training for our staff as well.”

Nicky's husband Alex, dressed as 'her lobster' (pictured above), told us: “It was great to bring people together and my bean would be so proud.” 

Nana Akowuah-Addo, Lead Nurse at TYAC, who was dressed as Minnie Mouse, said: “It’s been a really good turnout; it’s been quite amazing…obviously really mixed emotions. The charity means so much to us at TYAC because we can support other patients living through their experience of cancer. It’s been a really good experience and I appreciate everyone coming out today.”

Walkers enjoyed a warm up and goody bags kindly provided by Guildford Nuffield Health, a chance to grab a selfie under the balloon arch, and food and drink along the way. Royal Surrey dieticians were also on hand to offer nutrition advice, and yoga and stretching was provided by Emma McGuiness. 

Huge thank you to everyone who supported the event and to Photography by Zoe, Michael Wadley, and Chris Mann Commercial Photo and Video for filming and taking photos on the day. 

Stride for Cancer Care will be back in autumn 2024 and we hope to see you there! We’ll bring you details very soon, or sign up to our enewsletter to make sure you don’t miss out on our latest news. To opt in, email us.

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Photo credit: Photography by Zoe