University Staff Moonwalk for Breast Cancer

The University team ‘The Wolverines’ took part in the 26 mile moon walk on 10 and 11 May.

The Wolverines consisted of the University’s Institute of Sport ladies: Senior Lecturer Alison Barber, Course Leader of Physical Activity, Exercise and Health Belinda Bowd , Course Leader of Sports Coaching Practice Zsuzsa Galloway, Reader in Sport and Exercise Psychology Tracey Devonport and honorary team member Cat Swift. 

Over 17,000 people attended the fundraising event, whereby females participated in completing the walk wearing decorated bras and other creative clothing.

The crowd listened to many emotional stories from different people sharing their reasons for completing the Moonwalk for breast cancer.

On Sunday 11 May, at 12.20am participants started their journey through the night and successfully completed the walk 10 hours later.

Alison suggested to take part in the fundraising for the charity after planning to run the London marathon but frustratingly couldn’t do so due to sport injury.

The 'moonwalk' became Alison’s next goal, along with three other colleagues that were also up for the challenge.

Alison said: “Two years ago, I lost three very special friends to cancer within 18 months. 

“For two of them, the illness had started in the breast, and for my other friend, the cancer spread from her ovaries to the rest of her body.

“The walk enabled me to try to do 'my little bit' for this dreadful illness.

“Thanks to donations from friends, family, colleagues and students, we will have raised over £1200.

“I would like to take this opportunity of thanking everyone that has supported us in 'uniting against breast cancer’.”

Donations can be made to the ‘walk the walk’ breast cancer charity by visiting:  https://moonwalklondon2014.everydayhero.com/uk/the-wolverines

ENDS

For more information please contact Danielle Taylor in the Media Relations Office on 01902 322448

Date Issued: 15 May 2014