Turn your daily steps into a force for good with a Macmillan Mighty Hike
Between June and September 2023, around 30,000 people took part in a Macmillan Mighty Hike. Located across 15 beautiful locations around the UK, supporters notched up just under 500,000 miles over the course of 24 events (12 marathons and 12 half marathons).
The challenges took place in a variety of different terrains, from flat coastal paths in Norfolk to hilly peaks in the Lake District. No matter the distance or difficulty, every hiker contributed to something wonderful — raising money and awareness for people affected by cancer. And in 2024, three new locations have been added: Eryri in Snowdonia, Cornwall and London, so it’s even easier to join in.
There are many reasons for wanting to take part in a personal challenge like a Macmillan Mighty Hike: losing a loved one to cancer; your own recovery journey; or simply wanting to support cancer care facilities. Everyone has a different story, but most are united by their passion for the great outdoors.
Keep reading to hear from Beth, who was inspired by her sister’s love of walking to take part in her first Mighty Hike.
Meet a mighty hiker
Beth, along with her sister Ruth and two of her nieces, took part in the Northumberland Mighty Hike in memory of her sister Grace, who sadly passed away from bowel cancer in 2022.
“Grace first experienced symptoms in 2020 at the beginning of the pandemic. It was tough for us all to hear her diagnosis. Our parents both died of cancer, so it has always been a presence in our lives. However, as our big sister, Grace always put a positive spin on everything and was adamant that the diagnosis wasn’t going to bring her down, even coining her own catchphrase of being ‘irritatingly positive’.
“When Grace went in for surgery, it was the height of lockdown. It was really tough dropping her off alone at the hospital. We weren’t allowed to visit her and that was one of the hardest periods for all of us, particularly Grace, as she tackled surgery alone.
"In August 2022, Grace was told there was nothing more that could be done for her, but she maintained her incredible positivity even then. We were, and still are, so proud of her."
“Grace’s favourite thing to do was to walk her two Labradors, Monty and Izzy. All the way through chemotherapy it was so important for her to keep walking — it was her happy place. So, taking part in a Mighty Hike seems like one of the most natural ways to remember Grace, doing what she loved best.
From the CNS nurse – who provided practical and emotional care – to the Support Line who explained terminology, offered advice on grants and helped unlock personal independence payments, Beth saw firsthand how Macmillan can support those living with cancer. And she wanted to say thank you, while making a difference, by completing a Mighty Hike.
Beth’s Mighty Hike in Northumberland
Starting at Alnwick Castle and winding along beautiful beaches and picturesque fishing villages, before ending at Bamburgh Castle, the Northumberland Mighty Hike is an incredible walk in its own right.
Whether you’re a keen hiker or not, training for a 26-mile-long walk is always recommended. Preparing for a hike of this length often means spending more time outdoors in nature, exploring new places and connecting with family and friends - all experiences that are undeniably beneficial for boosting your mental health. Plus, it will help make the day of the hike more enjoyable, so you can worry less about blisters and focus more on sharing stories with others.
"On the day, there was a real sense of excitement. The Macmillan team created a buzzing atmosphere to set us off and it was a real treat to spend the whole day together, chatting and remembering Grace together."
"I would recommend a Mighty Hike to anyone. An amazing day spent in spectacular scenery to raise vital funds for Macmillan Cancer Support."
Become a Mighty Hiker
An incredible £10 million has been collected in fundraising so far for the 2023 Mighty Hike series and this is expected to rise as participants have up to three months post event to submit what they’ve raised.
So why not sign up for the 2024 Mighty Hike and join hundreds of hikers in one of 15 locations around the UK? From the dramatic Northumberland coastline to rolling hills in the Wye Valley — there’s a walk to suit all abilities.
Not only will you be accomplishing a physical challenge, but every hike (and all fundraising efforts) helps to provide physical, emotional and financial support for people living with cancer.
