‘I chose to raise money for MacMillan Jersey after going through breast cancer last summer.’
Christa Roberts is running 7.4km every day in June, initially aiming for a total of 222km, which represents the 22 Holistic Needs Assesment’s that MacMillan Jersey provided last year, but she has gone beyond and is already on 275km (at the time of writing!).
We caught up with Christa about the challenge!
Tell us more about what your challenge is?
I wanted to give back after the amazing care I received from the service along with counselling holistic treatments and exercise classes. Without these, I do not know how I would’ve got through last year and as I continue through a challenging time.
Initially I set out to run 222 km which ended up being 7.4 km each day of June. 222 is the amount of holistic care plans MacMillan delivered last year. However, as I started my run I did a half marathon the day before I decided to aim for 300 km instead.
How have you found it so far?
I have found it tough going as the month started with Gail Force winds and driving rain, and then this week running in extreme temperatures whilst also navigating a very close family member being rushed to hospital, and also now on their own journey over the last 10 years.
Why is the charity so important to you?
I have raised lots of money for them to be able to help others on their cancer journey. I have lost so many friends over the years, but I also know how amazing MacMillan have been to those who have also survived.
The team at MacMillan are phenomenal from the volunteers to the permanent members of staff. From the minute you walk through the door, you feel the love and compassion that they offer, from counselling to just being able to speak openly or just to pop up and have a cup of tea in a safe space. I also received reflexology which was a godsend plus access to Fitness classes which allow you to just be normal whilst going through such a horrific time every single member of staff is an angel in disguise.
All money raised goes towards providing the services for all those on island going through the toughest time in their life. MacMillan receives no government funding so all donations go straight into the service and benefit patients. Any support you can offer would mean the world to me and others facing their journey.
