Sue Mee describes her recent Sahara desert trek as an incredibly fulfilling experience, made particularly special by the lasting friendships formed during the challenge while raising vital funds for Moya Cole Hospice.
Personal Motivation Behind the Challenge
Sue has supported Moya Cole Hospice for many years, ever since the organisation provided care for her mother. She has continued fundraising for the hospice as her way of giving back to the charity that supported her family.
The Sahara Trek was one of three overseas challenges offered as part of the Moya Cole Hospice 2025 programme, alongside the Great Wall of China and the Camino de Santiago. Sue selected the Sahara expedition because she considered it more achievable than climbing Mount Everest or Kilimanjaro.
"I think many people assume these challenges are beyond their budget or capabilities," Sue explained. "The Sahara trek seemed more accessible while still representing a significant distance to cover."
Building Lasting Connections in the Desert
The trekking group consisted of 25 participants, including a large contingent from another UK hospice. What began as a group of strangers meeting on the flight to Marrakech transformed into close friendships that Sue believes will last forever.
"The people I met - we'll be friends forever," Sue revealed. "I've even received a wedding invitation from someone in our group. Everyone supported each other throughout the journey. If someone struggled during the walk, others would naturally offer help and conversation to make the time pass more easily."
The six-day itinerary featured four days of actual trekking, beginning with a flight to Marrakech. Participants enjoyed a celebratory dinner on the fifth night after completing their walking challenges.
Managing Desert Conditions and Future Opportunities
Despite temperatures reaching approximately 30 degrees Celsius, the group managed the heat effectively using factor 50 sunscreen, hats, and traditional head scarves. Regular breaks, shaded lunch stops, and afternoon siestas helped everyone cope until temperatures became more comfortable.
Accommodation involved overnight camping, with camels transporting equipment to pre-prepared campsites each evening. Many participants chose to sleep on the sand dunes under the stars rather than in tents due to the warm conditions.
Looking ahead, Moya Cole Hospice has announced two Overseas Treks for 2026: the Inca Trail Trek and the Spanish Three Peaks. The hospice will host an information evening on November 18 at 6:30pm at their Heald Green location for anyone interested in participating.
Moya Cole Hospice provides comprehensive care for patients with life-limiting illnesses through inpatient services, day therapy, and outpatient support from its locations in Heald Green, Stockport, and Little Hulton, Salford. The organisation also delivers community outreach services, including Hospice at Home care in Salford and Trafford, specialist palliative care in Salford, and support for homeless individuals requiring palliative care in Manchester.
