It’s a sad fact of life that most of us know of someone whose life has been affected by cancer, either directly or indirectly. Sometimes it seems like there’s not much one person can do to help the situation, but of course that’s not true, even the smallest drop in the ocean can become a tidal wave. Dawn McCarthy, 43, is a local Dartford resident who is taking on the Shine Night Walk London 2021 on 25th September in aid of Cancer Research UK and has raised over £200 so far.
We caught up with Dawn to find out her inspiration behind the fundraising event and what it means to raise money for such a hard-working and vital charity: “Having lost a dear work friend to cancer in December last year and having my children’s nan having breast cancer I decided it will be a great cause to raise money for, and ensure I won’t start smoking again!
“I only stopped smoking 3 months ago, and took up an old passion of mine – jogging – and I absolutely love it. My family and jogging are my life, I just became a ‘nana’ for the first time five months ago and I’m absolutely so in love.
“I gave up smoking once again as I realised how unhealthy I had become. I used to go jogging every weekend before and even ran a half marathon. But now I jog every weekend again but I’m obviously not as good yet as I used to be.
“I’m wanting to ensure I stay around to see my grandson grow up. Jogging and walking for me is my time, the time I have just for me, it’s my head space peace.
“I would love to thank everyone that has donated, unfortunately each of us know someone who has been affected by cancer one way or another. I am so super excited to do this walk, and have said even if it was cancelled due to COVID-19, I will still do the walk providing I got at least one donation.”