By Jill Stocks
Members of Sisters of Horsforth WI were walking to support Cancer Research and each other this weekend – and raising vital funds on the way.
Eight members of the Sisters of Horsforth, which was founded 18 months ago, walked as a team to raise money for a cause close to all of their hearts.
They donned their tutus and waved their glow sticks as they joined many others taking part in the Leeds Shine Night Walk for Cancer Research UK.
The 10K route, which started and finished at Millenium Square, took in a number of Leeds landmarks along the way, passing the Corn Exchange, Leeds Docks and the Royal Armouries, the Grand Arcade and Victoria Quarter and Leeds Minster.
Rachel O’Rourke was one of the walkers and has very personal experience of cancer. She said: “Four years ago I was diagnosed with bowel cancer. I was put on the Rapido Trial which meant I had radiotherapy then chemo first rather than an operation straight away.
“It was tough, taking those tablets for the first time was scary; I knew I had to have them to help me but also knew they were going to make me poorly.
“But four rounds later, a trip to the consultant for what I thought was going to be my operation date turned out to be the best day ever. 8th Sept 2022 I was told I was cancer free.“
“A surprise is putting it mildly! I wish I could bottle up that euphoria. I was dreading having an operation and possibly a stoma bag. So it was celebrations all round,
“Four years on, I get regular checks which gives me peace. Cancer is awful but we can survive it too.”
Claire Evans founded the Sisters of Horsforth WI 18 months ago. She said: “What an incredible and emotional experience, reading people’s stories as we walked.
“I lost my dad to cancer 13 years ago, which was so hard and having sore feet by the end of 10k is nothing in comparison.
“How wonderful that we’ve raised over £1400 for Cancer Research which is amazing!”
Paula Newall remembered her brother as she walked. She told us: “I walked in memory of my courageous brother Dave and for all those undergoing treatment or those who have loved and lost.
“Every step was a reminder of how Together We Can Make A Difference.”
So far the Sisters have raised more than £1,500 but it’s not too late to donate. You can still make a donation to support the teams fundraising using this link.
As well as providing support and friendship through sisterhood the Sisters of Horsforth WI also support the Horsforth and wider communities by supporting awareness and fundraising campaigns. You can keep up with all their activities on their Instagram page.