A dedicated 24-member team of walkers tackled a 9.5-mile challenge in May, raising over £10,000 in support of ABCD’s wellness retreats for women with primary and metastatic breast cancer.
The Power Behind the Retreats
Founded by Jo Taylor of Diggle—herself living with metastatic breast cancer—ABCD’s retreats aim to improve the physical and emotional wellbeing of participants through activity-focused weekends. Launched as a pilot nine years ago, the retreats are now in their fourth official year and continue to grow in impact.
Thanks to grants and fundraising, ABCD is able to offer access to these retreats for only £50, making them accessible to more women navigating breast cancer.
Despite her recent ill health, Jo was present at the event to give her blessing alongside volunteer Emma and miniature dachshund Daisy, handing out Nordic walking poles and encouraging participants at the start and finish.
A Walk of Memory, Strength, and Connection
Twelve past retreat participants joined the hike, bringing along friends and family from across the UK and even Germany. One family walked in memory of Mary Huckle, a former retreat attendee and Three Peaks challenge participant who died from metastatic breast cancer nearly two years ago.
The 9.5-mile walk, starting at the King William IV pub in Greenfield, was supported by six volunteers and included an elevation gain of 2,181 feet, taking walkers past Pots and Pans, Alderman Hill, and up the difficult climb to Chew Reservoir—a 1.5-mile stretch rising to 1,640 feet.
Although the top was cold, spirits remained high. The breathtaking views of the Dovestone area, along with strong teamwork, helped participants overcome the physical challenge. At lunchtime, Jo and Emma returned to meet and cheer on the group.
Honoring the Community
At the finish, Jo Taylor gave a moving speech, underlining the importance of awareness of metastatic breast cancer. She read the names of 22 women who had attended previous retreats but had since passed away, honoring their memories with grace and compassion.
The walk reinforced how these retreats are much more than physical activity—they’re about support, connection, and hope. Walkers repeatedly shared how ABCD’s retreats have changed lives, helping women feel stronger and less alone.
Looking Ahead
The £10,000 raised will fund future retreats, continuing Jo’s mission of care, community, and empowerment for women living with breast cancer.
Despite personal health challenges, Jo remains deeply committed to expanding access and awareness, proving that one woman’s vision—and a supportive community—can have a global reach.
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