Dorset cancer survivor completes 200 mile walk for charity
Emma Fortescue has been marking 10 years since her treatment
A former cancer patient from Dorset has marked a decade since the end of her treatment by walking 200 miles for charity.
59 year old Emma Fortescue from Gussage St Michael near Wimborne has raised more than £6,300 for the Stars Appeal at Salisbury District Hospital, where she was cared for.
Emma's walk took her around the catchment area for the hospital, starting at the charity's headquarters on September 1st, and took her to just north of Bournemouth, Blandford, Trowbridge, Devizes, Tidworth and back to Salisbury.
She, along with husband Anthony and dog Mabel, completed the challenge on November 18th.
Emma explains why she wanted to take on the journey:
“I wanted to do it for me and to do something positive to mark the 10th anniversary of my treatment and raise money for the Stars Appeal. I also wanted to do something to thank the doctors and nurses for their amazing skills and dedication in helping me to get better and show how lucky we are to have this wonderful hospital.”
She says finishing the effort was a very emotional experience:
“I think it just hit me because I had thought that I probably wouldn’t be here in the ten years and I am, so I’m very lucky.”
Emma, was diagnosed with breast cancer in September 2012 and had a mastectomy as well as chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
During her treatment she benefited from projects funded by the Stars Appeal which included free aromatherapy sessions:
“When I had the first round of chemo there was an aromatherapist who the Stars Appeal fund. I was terrified but she was so calming and reassuring. It’s nice to be able to keep things like that going. It made such a difference to me.”
You can find out more about her challenge and support Emma on her JustGiving page |newtab).
Becky Addley, Sister on the Pembroke Unit at Salisbury District Hospital, said:
“We are so grateful to Emma for taking on this challenge. Her support will enable us to do more for our patients on both the Pembroke Unit and Breast Unit. A heartfelt thank you to Emma and all who supported her!”