Spurred by vital work
I joined hundreds of dedicated women and men for a 60km hike around the streets of Birmingham for the Aviva Breakthrough Breast Cancer weekend. The event kicked-off Breast Cancer awareness month and we raised £1.3 million.
I and fellow walkers set off at 7am from Cannon Hill Park on September 23 and travelled in a figure of eight pattern around Birmingham, passing Brindley Place, University Clock Tower and some of the most picturesque parks. We then camped overnight in bright pink tents and continued our journey on Sunday, finishing back at Cannon Hill Park for a moving closing ceremony in the afternoon.
I'm really proud that I successfully made it to the end, but knowing that every penny raised will help fund Breakthrough's vital work spurred me on through every mile.
I took part in this event because my Auntie Bet, who I was very close to, recently died from breast cancer, and friends Rita and Bev (mother and daughter) found out in December that they both had developed this terrible illness at the same time.
Unfortunately Rita lost her fight in August this year. She had donated money for us but sadly wasn't here when we did the walk. I and my cousin Glynis Page from the Little Angels team have had huge support from everyone from when we first registered right to the finishing line.
We'd both like to say a huge thank-you to everyone who donated and supported us through the whole experience.
Diane Rawle, Haden Road, Tipton.