Isabella Walter

I'm taking part in The Big Marsden Trek

Hello everyone! I’m Belle and I work as an Activities Coordinator in a complex care centre, supporting residents living with complex neurological and respiratory conditions. My residents have become such a big part of my life, and through my work I have also supported people affected by cancer.

I’ve been lucky enough to share the happiness of seeing a resident become cancer-free, but I’ve also experienced the heartbreak of losing residents I’ve grown incredibly fond of. When you spend your days caring for people, laughing with them, listening to their stories and sharing so many little moments together, they become far more than just the people you support. They leave a lasting place in your heart which I’m so grateful to have and have had.

Cancer has also touched my own family personally.

Last year, I lost my beautiful Nanny Maureen. Unfortunately, my Nan also had to go through her final years of life battling with leukaemia. My nan meant — and still means — the absolute world to me. Learning to do life without her has honestly been one of the biggest challenges I’ve ever faced, and I know my whole family feels that loss every single day.

Not long after losing my nan, our family suffered another loss when my Uncle Mick passed away. He had been receiving treatment at The Royal Marsden, which makes taking on this challenge feel even closer to home.

These experiences — both in my personal life and through the people I care for at work — have shown me just how much cancer can change the lives of not only the person facing it, but everyone who loves them too. They’ve also shown me how incredibly important research, treatment, compassionate care and support are.

That’s why I’ve decided to take on the Royal Marsden’s 26.2 mile Trek. 

Walking 26.2 miles is definitely going to be a challenge, but when I think about the people I’m doing it for, every single mile will be worth it.

I’m walking for my Nanny Maureen 🩷

I’m walking in memory of my Uncle Mick 💛

I’m walking for the residents I’ve had the privilege of knowing and caring for 🩵

I’m walking for those we’ve lost, those still fighting, and those who have thankfully been able to hear the words “cancer free.” 💜

Most importantly, I’m walking in the hope that the money we raise can help give more people and their families more time together.

The money raised will support The Royal Marsden’s incredible work, helping to fund life-saving research, pioneering treatments and outstanding care for people affected by cancer.

If you’re able to donate, no matter how big or small, it would genuinely mean the world to me. And if you can’t donate, simply sharing my page would mean just as much!

Every mile will be for someone. And I’ll be carrying some very special people with me for all 26.2 of them ♥️

Thank you so much for your support,

Belle ✨