A pair of adventurous fund-raisers are taking on the Robert Louis Stevenson Trail in a bid to raise money for Cancer Research UK.
David and Helen McLeod, of Braco in Perthshire, will undertake the 141-mile trek in central France over 10 days, following Stevenson’s journey with his donkey Modestine in 1878 and made famous in Travels with My Donkey.
The retired insurance executive and his wife decided on the challenge in memory of David’s younger sister, Catherine who died last year of cancer of the uterus.
“Catherine had a great love of literature so it was entirely appropriate that we do this walk made famous by one of the greatest Scottish writers,” said David.
“Cancers of the womb are not common when compared to breast or lung cancer but are difficult to detect and Catherine’s was particularly aggressive.
“Because of the relatively small numbers of women having cancer of the womb, research into them does not attract the funding high-profile cancers are able to do.
“We decided to embark on a long distance walk in central France and through a special agreement with Cancer Research UK, the sponsorship raised will go specifically to support womb cancer research.”
The couple aim to raise £6000 which they should well surpass as they’ve already received donations and pledges totalling £5809. Preparations have included regular visits to the gym and a four-day walk on the Cateran Trail.
“We are very much looking forward to doing this challenge and raising funds for this worthwhile cause,” added David.
To find out more and support the couple, visit www.justgiving.com/The-Catherine-Cancer-RLS-Trek.
Dorothy Rodger, Cancer Research’s area volunteer manager for Perthshire, said she was “absolutely delighted” David and Helen had decided to attempt such a great challenge to raise money for the charity.
“They have being doing lots of preparation and we’re sure they’ll have an amazing experience,” she said. “We can’t thank them enough for all their support and want to wish them all the very best on the day.”
For more information about Cancer Research UK’s work, national or local, or to find out how to support the charity, call 08701 602040 or visit www.cancerresearchuk.org.uk.