A dedicated team from Addenbrooke’s Charitable Trust (ACT) is preparing to embark on a challenging trek along a remote section of the Great Wall of China next month, aiming to raise vital funds for two pioneering new hospitals in Cambridge. The group of 11 participants has already raised more than £28,000 and hopes to reach £30,000 as they cover nearly 50 kilometres over five days, navigating steep and rugged terrain between Gubeikou, Jinshanling and Simatai.
Participant Stories
Among the trekkers is Nick Ferguson, a father-of-four and Royal Mail lorry driver, who admits he is terrified of heights but signed up after encouragement from ACT’s head of community fundraising, Donna Lee-Willis. Despite finding the challenge increasingly daunting, he remains determined to complete it alongside fellow participants, each with personal motivations ranging from celebrating milestones to giving back for care received.
The Trek Details
The trek, ACT’s first international challenge, is rated moderate to challenging, with participants walking up to seven hours daily across mountainous terrain while carrying daypacks. The team has been training together in Cambridge and beyond, building strong bonds through shared preparation and fundraising events.
Fundraising Impact
Funds raised will support the development of the Cambridge Cancer Research Hospital and Cambridge Children’s Hospital, both set to transform healthcare in the region. The cancer hospital will combine research and clinical care under one roof, while the children’s hospital will be the first specialist facility of its kind in the East of England, integrating physical and mental healthcare alongside world-leading research.
Team Motivation
Participants include healthcare staff, charity supporters and individuals with personal connections to Addenbrooke’s, many of whom have experienced its care first-hand. Despite the physical and emotional challenges ahead, the team says their shared goal will keep them going every step of the way.
