Husband's cancer battle inspires South Shields mum to take on gruelling charity challenge

Linda Gordon's (R) Macmillan Grand Canyon Trek in memory of husband Paul. Friend and fundraising support Julie Cunningham (L) with Macmillan's Jane Curry (middle)

A South Tyneside mum, who was inspired by her husband's battle with cancer, has completed a gruelling charity challenge in his memory.

Linda Gordon was determined to do something unique to remember husband Paul after he lost his fight with oesophageal cancer at the age of 51, last year.

Kitted out in hiking gear and walking boots she took part in a week-long trek through the Grand Canyon, Arizona, in aid of Macmillan Nurses - raising £4,272.

Linda Gordon's Macmillan Grand Canyon Trek in memory of husband Paul.

Linda, 52, from Hylton Avenue, South Shields, said: “After Paul died I just wanted to do something big and challenging in his memory.

“At first I couldn’t think of anything then the trek came up on Facebook.

“I saw how hard Paul fought and what he went through, it inspired me to push myself.

“I also wanted to give something back to Macmillan as they were an amazing support and helped Paul to keep his dignity at the end.”

The mum-of-two added: “It was absolutely brilliant. There were five other girls taking part and we all bonded.

“It was tough and everything was so basic but the experience was amazing. I was sobbing like a baby when I made it.

“I have been left overwhelmed by everyone’s support helping me to raise the funds and I can’t thank everyone enough for their generosity and Julie Cunningham for all her help.”

Money was raised through a variety of charity nights, bag packing, darts night and a memorial night.