Kim’s ready to tackle trip of a lifetime
Fundraising mum travelling to Peru
A mum is set to trade in St Leonards for the heights of Machu Picchu to raise money for Breast Cancer Care.
Kim Simpson, 46, will take on an unforgettable 10-day trek for the charity next month – a cause which is close to her heart.
Kim was diagnosed with breast cancer when she was just 29, when she was supporting two young kids as a single parent.
A year later, and after many surgeries, she was given the good news that there was no longer any evidence of the disease.
From that point on, Kim decided to live her life to the full.
And having taken on a parachute jump and graced the catwalk at a fashion show, all for Breast Cancer Care, Machu Picchu is next on the bucket list.
Kim will be joined by 12 other breast cancer survivors as she tackles the 2000 km walk – starting on March 30.
It will take four arduous days to climb from the bottom to the top. There will be 12-hour days of trekking uphill as well as another eight-hour day of climbing the steps of the famous Inca city.
Despite the huge test, Kim admits it only took her a few moments to decide that she would take on the huge walk.
“It was a pretty instantaneous decision for me,” she told the News.
“I have always been willing to help out Breast Cancer Care because I know first hand some of the fantastic work they do.
“I just see this as another great way to help out – and it should be a great adventure with the girls!”
Kim is in awe of the support she has received so far, after smashing the fundraising target to go on the trip after just one event.
She now hopes to bring in as much as she can for the charity.
“We were told that to take part we each had to raise at least £3500,” said Kim. “It was a huge ask and, to be honest, I wasn’t sure if I would be able to do it.
“I decided to organise a fundraiser at the British Legion and managed to raise most of the money there – the support has been unbelievable.”
“I can’t thank my friends and family enough – and now I just want to keep raising as much as I can.”
It should be a great adventure with the girls...
●To find out more or donate to Kim visit www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/KIM-FERGUSSON1