Vicky’s trek for East Kent Hospitals Charity

An oncology counsellor is preparing to hike Hadrian’s Wall to raise money for cancer patients.

Vicky Monsoon, who works at the Viking Day Unit at Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother hospital in Margate will take on the 84-mile trek at the end of May for East Kent Hospitals Charity.

Vicky, 38, from Ramsgate, has worked as an oncology counsellor for six years.

She said: “I want to help make a difference in the lives of our patients, while also supporting our hardworking staff.”

The money raised will go specifically towards cancer services at QEQM, helping to make patients’ cancer journeys more comfortable during what can be an incredibly difficult time.

Vicky will walk the route over five days, covering approximately 15-20 miles per day from Carlisle to Newcastle - the reverse of the traditional direction usually taken by hikers. She will be joined by her friend Andrew, who has long wanted to complete the hike.

Vicky said: “I was pleased to be able to accompany him and turn the challenge into a meaningful way to raise money for cancer services.”

Each day will begin early after a good breakfast at local B&Bs and hotels, before setting out towards the next stop. While there won’t be supporters lining the route, both Vicky and Andrew’s partners will meet them in Newcastle at the finish line to celebrate their achievement before travelling home together.

Vicky is an experienced hiker who enjoys exploring the UK countryside and said the challenge appealed to her love of nature and personal growth.

She added: “Hiking is peaceful and healing. Being a counsellor can be tough at times, so good self-care is really important. This is a wonderful way to decompress while doing something positive.”

Vicky’s last fundraising challenge was in 2009 when she completed the world’s highest bungee jump for the MS Society. This will be her first endurance hiking event of this scale.

She said: “I can’t wait to see the impact the money raised will have on our service. Thank you to everyone who donates - no matter how big or small, every contribution is truly appreciated.”

Supporters can follow Vicky’s journey and donate via her JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/page/vicky-monsoon-hardianswallhike