'Incredible courage' - Memorial walk set to honour Hebburn woman's 21-year battle with cancer
The family and friends of a much-loved Hebburn woman are set to talk on a 16-mile memorial walk.
More than 30 family members and friends of a Hebburn woman are set to walk to Durham Cathedral to light a candle in her memory.
Heather Winthrop sadly died from cancer earlier this year after living with the illness for 21 years.
The group will set off on the 16-mile walk from Heather’s Hebburn home at 8am on Saturday, September 19, as they look to raise money for the South Tyneside-based Cancer Connections.
During her life, Heather personally benefited from the charity’s support and she was passionate about ensuring that others living with cancer, and their families and friends, received the help they needed.
‘Heather never allowed cancer to define her’
Heather spent years as an advocate for cancer care and was a supporter to fellow cancer survivors despite her own battle.
She also helped to raise money for cancer services, including the chemotherapy unit at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Macmillan and Cancer Connections.
Speaking ahead of the walk, Heather’s family said: “Heather never allowed cancer to define her.
“For 21 years she showed incredible courage, compassion and determination, always finding the strength to support other people even while facing her own challenges.
“Cancer Connections meant so much to Heather because she had experienced their support herself.
“This walk is our way of celebrating her life and continuing something that was incredibly important to her - helping others affected by cancer.
“Lighting the candle at Durham Cathedral will be a very emotional moment.
“It will be for Heather, but also for everyone living with cancer, those who have survived it and those who have lost someone they love.
“Every mile, every step and every donation will be made in Heather’s memory.”
Fundraising for Cancer Connections
At the time of writing, Heather’s family and friends have raised more than £2,600 and they hope the walk help raise even more money.
The walk is open to anyone who wants to take part, with options to walk the whole route or just join for part of the journey.
Cancer Connections is dedicated to helping individuals and families who are suffering from cancer and its after-effects.
The charity looks to provide emotional and practical help that many people need when trying to return to “normal life” after cancer.
You can donate to the charity walk at: https://www.justgiving.com/page/heatherwinthrop.