Fiona Plummer, 51, who works in an adult learning disability service in Durham battled difficult weather and terrain across the 71-mile journey.
The walk, which starts in Ulverston and finishes in Carlisle, was completed in memory of Fiona’s brother, Brian, and mother, Edith, who both died within a week of each other in 2021. The loss left a lasting impact, shaping Fiona’s decision to take on the demanding trek and raise money for Andy’s Man Club.
She said: “From the very start we had what felt like relentless rain, horizontal at times. It made for long days, soaked kit, soggy boots and plenty of ‘what on earth are we doing?!’ moments. Our journey also extended to 75 miles after a few navigational detours, so was tougher than we expected.”
“Walking has always been my reset, my way of coping when life feels heavy,” she explained.
“This felt like the right thing to do – not just as a challenge, but to remember and celebrate my brother.”
Fiona, who works at Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust, hopes the journey will encourage others to open up about grief and mental health.
“Grief affects us all in different ways – whether it’s losing someone close, the end of a relationship, or life changes we sometimes downplay,” she continued.
“Bri always put on a brave face no matter what he was going through, and that’s stayed with me.”
Fiona took on the challenge with her friend Allison and faithful dog Bella, who both helped her through the five-day challenge. “Having them both with me made all the difference, especially on the harder days,” she said.
“There were long climbs that tested us, paths that weren’t always clear, and weather that made everything feel heavy. But there were also moments where everything lifted, reminding us there is always something ahead worth carrying on for.”
So far, Fiona has raised around £220 for Andy’s Man Club, a charity that supports men’s mental health through peer-to-peer groups.
“I chose the charity because of the work they do encouraging honest conversation. It really resonates with me and felt like the right way to remember Bri in a positive way,” she continued.
“Nothing really prepares you for day after day in those conditions, but if it encourages someone to talk, reach out, or even just get their boots on and enjoy nature when they need it most, that will mean everything.”
To support Fiona’s fundraising, please head to the JustGiving page
