Best foot forward for good cause

You know someone’s heart is in the right place when they are prepared to walk the Great Wall of China to prove it.

Jo-Maitera Hall will participate in the New Zealand Breast Cancer Foundation’s Pink Ribbon Trek in September and is already training for the 11- day, 8850- kilometre challenge.

The trek is a new fundraising initiative for the foundation and is a collaboration with Inspired Adventures.

The Hongoeka Bay resident and busy mother of four took part in the 2014 Ride to Conquer Cancer and said her goal was to continue supporting people on personal journeys, including women with breast cancer.

Although she was not a survivor herself, Hall said there had been cancer within her family.

‘‘I lost my uncle last year and I’ve known people who have lost family members to cancer as well,’’ Hall said.

‘‘ It’s so prevalent. You always know someone who has had cancer or been affected by it.’’

Though Hall, who is Ngati Toa, tries to keep herself fit and is involved in many activities, she said positivity kept her focused.

‘‘When I saw the Pink Ribbon Trek 2015, I thought, ‘I can do this’.’’

In Hall’s group there are about 19 others taking part and another group has also been created.

‘‘ This will be my first time in China. It’s an international challenge and a great opportunity to raise awareness. I haven’t travelled since having children.’’

Hall said her fundraising goal was open, but she would like to raise $3500 for the New Zealand Breast Cancer Foundation. For the trip itself, she needs to raise $4500 and so far she has raised just over $2000.

‘‘I’m optimistic. I look forward to the challenge and appreciate everyone’s tautoko [support].’’