An adventurous paramedic is set to trek the Great Wall of China to raise funds for the hospice which cared for her mum.
Rebecca England, from Worcester, will spend five days hiking along a section of the historic fortification this October and has already raised more than £2,200 for St Richard’s Hospice.
The 29-year-old will walk over mountains, along narrow paths and up hundreds of steps to complete the challenge in memory of her mum Vivienne England – who died aged 62.
Mrs England, a former nurse and manager who lived in Worcester, was cared for by St Richard’s in her own home, before she died earlier this year.
Her daughter, Rebecca, said: “I’m excited – I haven’t been to China before. I thought trekking the Great Wall of China would be a good challenge – and a great experience. I’m hoping to raise as much as possible.
“St Richard’s was very adaptable to my mum’s wishes and supported us to be able to provide care for her at home.
“It meant that my brother and I could have some quality time with her in her own home where she was comfortable and allowed her close friends to come and be with her.”
Mrs England, who worked in the NHS for more than 40 years, was well-known at Worcestershire Royal Hospital.
“Mum was kind and selfless and was very proud of my brother and I,” said Miss England. “It will be a great honour to take part in this experience in memory of mum, as we are very proud of her, as well as being able to give something back to St Richard’s which helped us during this very difficult time.”
Vivienne England
Miss England will join a group of walkers for the challenge, which will include a night camping on the historic wall.
Jodi Brandwood, Fundraiser at St Richard’s, said: “This will be an incredible experience for Rebecca and we hope she has a fantastic time.
“We are so grateful for her truly fantastic fundraising efforts – she has raised an amazing amount so far!
“We rely on the community to help raise money to support our free, compassionate care to patients living with life-limiting illnesses, their loved one and bereaved people across Worcestershire.”
To help Miss England continue with her fantastic fundraising efforts, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/rebecca-england4
For information about how to get involved and walk the Great Wall of China for St Richard’s, click here.