Hospital charity’s popular fundraising walk goes virtual

THE Forever Friends Appeal is calling on supporters to sign up and take part in its virtual walking event, My Walk of Life Marathon.

It takes place throughout September and aims to raise much-needed funds for the Royal United Hospitals Bath. Like many organisations the charity has postponed and moved some of its events online because of the timing of the pandemic, social distancing and the strict restrictions on mass gatherings. This virtual event replaces the charity’s annual Walk of Life flagship fundraiser which couldn’t be staged this year. 

Events and community manager Laura Pearce  said, “We have missed seeing our supporters take to the canal path this year but we hope by changing our physical walk to a virtual event instead, everyone taking part will feel connected, even though we can’t be together. 

“It’s completely up to you how you decide to complete the 26.2 mile challenge. It’s your walk, and you can do it your way over 30 days. Take this opportunity to get out and discover the great outdoors or tot up your miles in your own home or garden,  just ensure you comply with the social distancing rules. 

“This event is interactive as when you sign up you create your fundraising page and set your target. You will then be able to share your page with friends, family and colleagues and see the other participants’ progress. You can also log your miles or track them by linking to Strava. 

“By taking part in this challenge you will be helping us provide the rapid funding needed to support our staff, patients and their families. If you cherish our NHS you can make a difference locally by signing up and taking part in My Walk of Life Marathon.” 

The charity added, “For 13 years our much-loved annual Walk of Life has seen thousands of people from all over Bath, Wiltshire and Swindon take to the towpath between Bishop Cannings and Bath to complete a sponsored walk, raising money for major campaigns and wards and departments at the RUH. 

“With this year being so different for all of us, your continued support for The Forever Friends Appeal will mean that the charity will be able to help transform patient care by providing additional funding for the hospital’s wards and departments and towards its major campaigns and appeals such as the Dyson Cancer Centre and Speech and Language Therapy Appeal. Participants can also choose to donate their sponsorship to a particular ward if they wish. 

“If you would like to make your step count for RUH staff and patients, sign up to the My Walk of Life Marathon today. Registration is free and if you raise £100 by 30th September you will receive a medal.”

For more information visit www.my walkoflifemarathon.co.uk.