Your Stories

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What is your story

1. Caroline Quinn

2009 - Four caps; 4 medals - Still to get under 3 hours for half moon!  Despite training have been in bed with a heavy cold but was determined to finish.  Thanks to the volunteers and well wishers - you really make a difference.  Thanks to my 'bud' Carol who kept me walking.  And to the 'more mature gentleman' when going up Arthurs seat who did not let all the walkers going past him get him down!  He just got even and caught up with them downhill.

2. Monique Brigham

My name is Monique Brigham I am 14 and I am from Chicago Illinois USA I walked the moonwalk with some family friends from Scotland, It was so amazing seeing 10000 people come together to help for a very good cause. It was very liberating and I thank you Walk the Walk for putting on a race that made my visit to Scotland so enjoyable and a experience that I will never forget!

3. Anne-Marie Nelson

Well I did complete the half moon!! My mum died of Cancer (ovarian) on the 22nd June 2007. Every practise walk ended up in me having feet that looked like big blisters.  My friend Sally and I decided to do it and make a night of it. We dressed up as fairies. We had an absolute ball. It is the big achievement I have had since given birth 18 1/2 yrs ago!!! Sally lost her dad to cancer to and we both know they were looking after us last night walking throughout the streets of Edinburgh.  And no blister!!!!  Thanks to all the volunteers and the people of Edinburgh who had to put up with all the shouting and cheering from the huge amount of walkers. Well done everyone.   Anne-Marie, Falkirk & Sally, Blackburn. xx

4. Aileen Fraser

I would like to give a big thank you to all the volunteers who kept cheering us on with encouragement and always with a big smile.

5. Donna Adler-Connor

Well I’ve just got home following a very long 2009 Edinburgh moonwalk.  Thank you to all the organisers, the amazing volunteers who encouraged us every step of the way and fellow walkers who cheered with us at every mile marker!  Woohoo!  This was our first moonwalk but Nick and I have raised over £500 and I’m sure well be part of it again in the future.  Off for well deserved sleep now.

6. Jill Millar

I just wanted to pass on my heartfelt thanks to the volunteers at Moonwalk Edinburgh.  This was my first Moonwalk and it was so well run.  I know the night is supposed to be all about the walkers and the money they raise but the volunteers deserve a great big hug for their fantastic contribution.  It was so well organised.  What a great night.  Even the weather didn’t let us down!

7. Linda Herd

What a great night!  I have just completed my first Half Moonwalk and it was great fun!  I am a Scot who currently lives in Melbourne and came home to celebrate my 50th birthday. I did it in style by joining the Moonwalk and raising £1000 in the process.  I look forward to coming back and completing the full Moonwalk next year!  Or perhaps you could bring it to Melbourne Australia!

8. Frances Dodd

Oh what a night!!! This was our first ever MoonWalk. We were 11 girls from East Kilbride and surrounding areas. We were made up of four sisters from the McCabe family and some of our closest friends. This started off as a mad idea by Bernadette, who thought it would be fun. We all got some friends to join us including Margaret Mary, the oldest McCabe, who flew up from Kent to take part with us. We trained in groups to try to reach our goal of 4.5 hours for the Half Marathon.  We arrived at the park and couldn't believe the sight. It was amazing, the people, the pink tent, and the sounds totally overwhelming. We wanted to do everything, eat, get tattooed, warm up and take photographs of the whole experience. The first few miles were excellent; we led the uggy, uggy uggy as we stopped at a set of lights. We all kept pretty much together and completed the course in anywhere between 4 hours and 4 hours and 15 minutes, better than we thought!! Today, the legs are a wee bit stiff, but the heart is full of good feelings. People are amazing, we chatted to lots of people as we went round, and we all looked after each other, even those not in our group. This type of event restores your faith in people, in this fairly competitive and cut throat world that we live in, none of that was on display last night. We saw people at their best by the bucket load. I would also like to pay special thanks to all of the helpers, they were amazing, they were still cheering us at 4am as much as they were at midnight, and I am quite sure they were still doing the same for the full marathons coming in around 7-8am. THANK YOU, YOU ARE TRULY SPECIAL. Frances Dodd

9. Leigh Collier

As a first time full moon walker, I had a wonderful experience in Edinburgh! What a fantastic night in a great place. I am very tired, and my muscles ache, but are so glad to have taken part. I just wanted to say a huge thank you to all the wonderful volunteers who were so happy and encouraging every step of the way. They were amazing and went above and beyond the call of duty, with puppets, music, encouragement and even jelly beans!!  They were the heroes of the night. Also a big thank you to all the supporters who clapped us on (with pink gloves), made us laugh, shouted out of their windows and stood in their dressing gowns in the street at 4 in the morning! We couldn't have done it without you!!

10. Stephanie Elliot

This was the second year my friends Lorraine, Kim, Claire and I had done the Moonwalk. We were accompanied by two first timers; Michelle and Liz. The atmosphere in the pink tent was fab and we enjoyed the warm up as we had before. This year we were yellow walkers and were in the first group to leave after a bit of banter with Grant Stott over the starting point. Once off we stuck to our team tactic of stay together. The pace in the yellow group was fab and we knew we were keeping good time. Going up Arthurs Seat in the dark was a bit spooky but the view is spectacular but coming down to find we were at the 7 mile marker already was a real boost. The banter and watching the bras and wigs as we went kept us going and the support crew were fab as ever. The DJ at Silverknowes was a real surprise and we sang along all the way down towards the van doing 'YMCA' and then along the promenade as far as we could hear it. What a boost and put a smile on our faces and some of those around us. The sun had risen and clouds had moved on by the time we came to Portobello and those of us who had walked before agreed that we felt much better at this point than we had last year. Going past Parliament in the sun it was really tempting to dip hot tootsies in the pools. The sun really made a difference and walking down Canonmills knowing we were in the last mile was great and we even managed to speed up a little. We crossed the line after 7hrs 13 mins and 48 secs according to the finish line, over an hour better than last year. We walked across together holding hands and headed off to collect our medals. The crew were amazing all the way and so were the police. Everyone was so supportive and encouraging. We have done the Moonwalk because we have friends and family who have and have had breast cancer and we know it means a lot to them and us. Roll on next year, might be a walker again or maybe a volunteer for a change. Either way roll on Edinburgh Moonwalk 2010!

11. Lorna Gilmour

Well we have done it (never to be done again), myself and my pal Julie it's quite surreal sitting here at 9:30 pm knowing that it's all over after all the training it's a bit of an anti-climax.  Still can't believe I have walked 26.2 miles even though my feet won't let me forget.  Congratulations to everyone who took part.  xxx

12. Judith Spriggs

I walked the half moon with a lovely middle aged couple from Ayrshire on the night and they kept me going. Unfortunately I missed congratulating and thanking them at the finish line and I would love for them to get in touch with me so I can personally do that.  I remember them saying that their daughter was walking the full moon. Can anyone help me to get in touch with them? Thanks.

13. Helen Lowe

This was my second Edinburgh Moonwalk. I was fortunate to have taken part in the first one in 2006 and had even more reason to participate in this one. After losing my Mum to breast cancer when I was 15, I met my friend Fi at Uni and it was thanks to her that I was introduced to the man who is now my husband! Despite living almost 100 miles away from each other Fi and I kept in touch and regularly visited each other with our families.  On her son's 3rd birthday and on the eve of her own 33rd, Fi was diagnosed with breast cancer. She faced the months of chemo and the resulting mastectomy with her characteristic and inspiring positive outlook and with the support of her family, friends and colleagues.   Everyone was optimistic that the treatment had been successful and life returned to normal.  It was devastating then, when, nearly 5 years later, Fi was told that her cancer had returned faced months of chemo all over again.  Her 40th Birthday was an emotional celebration, because, as Fi put it - "This time last year I didn't know if I would be here to celebrate it” Since then this brave and inspiring woman has continued to fight the fight and juggled her chemo so that she could take part in this year’s London Moonwalk with her 13 year old daughter.  She is the reason I was walking last night. She continues to inspire others and personifies the importance of all the work Walk the Walk does and the charities it supports.  Edinburgh 2009 was a fantastic occasion, made even more so by the brilliant team of volunteers who kept our spirits up when our legs were heavy.  A huge thank you to all the team at Walk the Walk who made the whole thing run so smoothly. Bring on 2010!

14. Irene Mackenzie

I did my first moonwalk with my friends, Gaynor, Katie and Clare.  I’m a breast cancer survivor and my friends came to support me and they certainly did.  I took unwell at 18 miles and thanks to the amazing paramedics was able to finish the walk and then collapsed again.  The same two paramedics helped me again and today I can’t believe I’m feeling okay but very emotional.  It was a life changing experience and the site of all those people in decorated bras was awesome.  The volunteers were amazing too.  My special thanks are to my amazing friends and to the paramedics, especially mark who was just wonderful.  Irene 

15. Karen Hunter

Amazing & that's just the volunteers; what a wonderful job they did of encouraging me (especially since I walked it on my own) so a big shout out for all of them.  The organisation throughout the walk was second to none, which was hugely important as you don't want any worries about when you're getting water etc you just need to concentrate - my mantra was something I had read recently by a lady who had walked last year: "pain is only temporary, failure is forever" and by god did I need that.  Well done to everyone and me!!

16. Mhairi Mccallum

I'm Marz and up until Saturday night I was a Moonwalk virgin and what a way to lose it!    Let’s start at the beginning. In April 08 my amazing mummy was diagnosed with breast cancer so in October 2008 I took the first step in completing a personal challenge I set a couple of years before which was to complete a marathon before I hit 30. I completed the river ness 10k in October 08 raising over £700 for Maggie’s (a wee secret here - I found my half moon EASIER than my 10k!!).    In February I managed to persuade my colleague H to do the half moon in Edinburgh this year - each step was exciting and once I'd discovered the forum on here, there was no stopping me, the office girls were sick of hearing about it as it was all I went on about!    10 Days before the challenge, bra was decorated and what not and I decided to volunteer after my half - Amy in the office put me on the finish crew but more on that later.    1 day to go and I met Debbie and Claire from the forum for dinner and a wee drink in the Slug - we'd only just met in person but we felt like we'd known each other for years.    Up at 7 on Saturday - couldn’t sleep - and that was me until 10 am Sunday.  Got the train into Edinburgh at 6 from fife and met a few fellow MWs on the train - when I got off at South Gyle station they thought I was walking in from there to moonwalk city but I was off to meet H for our moonwalk adventure!    We made it to the site just after 8 and I was amazed by the size of everything and the lack of a queue to get in - Debbie had warned me the night before about these! We met Debbie and Claire and then headed in.  A quick wander and a stop at Walk Wear to buy badges and souvenirs and then we met the forum girls and Jo (who I must admit I didn’t recognise much to the amusement of the girls!).  Gossiping and stories were exchanged and then we showed off our bras to the world before me and H decided to explore further.    Stepping inside the big pink tent for the first time was one of many Wow moments of the night, off to Action Photo for our pre-walk piccies then we got our food - incredibly tasty given how many people they were providing for (hats off to the catering team!)  Dropped our bags off, quick loo stop and then we were inside ready to go - I tried on the scalp coolers and actually liked the experience (mum reminded me later that after 2hrs they're not quite as nice!).    A big thanks to Iain and the Elliot Murray band for the entertainment - you were fab!  Before we knew it Nina was on stage showing us her films and Lorraine Kelly joined her for the minutes silence which really reminded me of why we were all there, tears flowed and I got a much needed hug from H before we suddenly realised that the piper was playing 500miles on her bra wearing pipes - that song will have new meaning from me from now on.    Roy was on for our warm up and then the orange start was called - we set off at about 10past 12 to Grant's banter from the gantry and the smiling faces of the volunteer team.  We were off!    Mile 4 came about 1.30 and we were making good time until we hit Arthur’s seat - maybe some more lights up there next year as it was a wee bit dark and disorientating??  That was the hills over though!    The meadows came and so did our one and only loo stop of the night - 30mins queuing put us right off our stride though and made H feel a bit iffy, think she hit her wall and my legs wanted to seize but a quick stretch sorted all that out.  Mile 8 - we were on the home stretch!    The holiday Inn at mile 11 arrived and it was time for us to swing a right and make our way home to the tent, mile 12 - and I missed my only marker of the night, how I cursed one of the volunteers at 11.5 saying we were nearly there! Never mind, it gave H a laugh!    Next thing we knew we were at Crewe Toll and Fettes college where we seemed to bunch up a bit - I wanted to lift the pace but the crowds and H disagreed (we had made a pact that we started together so we would finish together and I could tell she was just about done!).  Crossing the line at 4.25 was fab and I got a really nice hug from Jo - I was determined to do it before 4.30 as it meant I’d stuck to my target of 4hrs excluding the loo stop!    Quick photo stop and hugs all round between me and H before she headed home and it was time for the volunteer shift to start!  It was now I was so grateful to Jo as I got a wee backstage tour and she pointed me in the direction of a much needed coffee!    We were making our way to the finish line when the first full mooner crossed the line - what an emotional experience for me! Jo handed me over to Kirsten and her team and I was thrown straight in to handing out medals under the watchful eye of Jane and Sarah - thank you so much for keeping me right ladies!    The most amazing part of the whole night was giving Thomas  Mackay his medal after he completed his half moon on crutches - its people like him who bring everything home and I was so proud to give him his medal.    Time for a quick swap of duties and I was on number buckets.  Nina came out for a bit with the baby and wanted to hand out medals - how lucky were those people to get their medals from the lady herself??    8.30 arrived and that was me - my legs told me to go home now as I couldn’t stand so I did as I was told by my body - never have I been so grateful for a taxi!    Thank you so much to Walk the walk and every single person involved from the media to the contractors to the walkers and our fab volunteers - you were all incredible!    I will never forget losing my moonwalk virginity and I will be back doing it again sometime - maybe a half next year or maybe a volunteer shift who knows?? I'm going to do one of the overseas challenges for my 30th I know that much (after my marathon of course).  To top it all, mum got the all clear to go ahead with her recon on Friday and I had her with me in my locket so she kept me going if it was tough so thank you mum for inspiring me to do something so fantastic.    Love marz  xxx

17. Joan  Davidson

just wanted to say a very big thank you to all the volunteers for their support and encouragement during the moonwalk this was my first marathon and at 47 never did any walking not even to the shop but my sister wanted to do something for cancer research having lost both our mum and sister when they were very young so I agreed and started the training which was hard to start with as she stays in Norfolk and I live in Glasgow but was well worth the effort I feel fitter slimmer and feel I have helped a little to end a lot of suffering and loss that too many people feel so thank you all but a very special thank you to my sister Teresa  love you xx

18. Lorraine Farmer

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19. Michelle Scott

I recently took part in my first ever moonwalk in Edinburgh it was a very tough walk but very enjoyable everyone helping each other along the way. My feet are feeling it today and I can’t wait to do it again next year.

20. Olivia White

I just want to say a huge thank you to you for the absolutely wonderful organisation of the Edinburgh marathon and an even bigger thanks to the volunteers.  It was quite cool for standing around and not one did I see with an unhappy face.  An especially big thank you goes to the gentleman volunteer who at the 1st mile said 'not long to go now.'    Olivia White No. 7908 and Laura Samuel No. 7080.    Thanks again for a wonderful night.

21. Muriel Donaldson

I walked with my daughter Nicola, aged 13, and my 2 nieces, Gillian aged 23 and Laura aged 20.  We were doing this as our family has, like many others been touched by breast cancer, in fact another member of our team who should have been walking with us had her first treatment of chemotherapy just last week, and therefore was not well enough to undertake the walk.  Laura and Gillian did a fantastic time of 7 hrs 24 mins even though Gillian was sick throughout the event 5 times.  Nicola and I took a bit longer 9 hrs 53 mins.  Nicola was tired and feeling sick at about halfway, I was suffering from blisters from training, but keeping my spirits up, at this point I gave Nicola the option of turning off with the half-mooners, but she wanted to go on.  At this point the determination to finish set in and her motivation increased, particularly because it was becoming light.  Walking along Leith to Portobello was just fantastic as the sun came out and it was a lovely view.  When we reached that 20 miles we were even more motivated. Got to the gates of Inverleith Park and it felt fantastic and there was Gillian and Laura waiting to greet us.  I am so proud of Nicola as she was one of the youngest taking part and she was involved in raising approximately £1000. 

22. Laura Samuel

a BIG thank you to all   the volunteers and supporters especially the lady standing at the bench at the 25 mile mark all she said was thank you and that made it all worth while

23. Sandy Hamilton

I did the moon walk (full) with my sister Lara and her friend jenny.  My sister had done it last year and as it was for a really good cause I thought I would give it a go.  Arriving on the night I was full of excitement and the atmosphere was amazing.  Up until 13 miles I was feeling fine with no aches, pains or blisters, but then hurt my hip and was in agony.  It was only through sheer determination on my behalf, the support from spectators, Lara and jenny, all the other walkers and the volunteers on the night and the fact it was for such a good cause I would never have made it but I did even if I hobbled for the last 6 miles and it was well worth it and I'm proud of my achievement.  I would like to say well done to all that took part especially Lara, Jenny, Becc's and Louise and to everyone who cheered along the way.  A special thank you to all the volunteers I wouldn't have made it without you. 

24. Audrey Macfarlane

To all of Edinburgh’s moonwalkers.  Last year, one week before I went through surgery for breast cancer, I stood in the big pink tent, with my husband, as a last minute volunteer serving rice/pasta knowing that everyone of you were walking for people like me.  I have just recently gone through further major surgery, but I felt I had to play my part again this year; my husband and I were part of the official driving team. I along with my friend Sandra kept the marshals going with hot drinks, whilst my husband drove the photographers to various locations. It is a night that we will never forget; being in a position to drive around the route and watch you in your thousands walk through Edinburgh was an absolutely amazing sight.  I’m sure you are all proud of your achievement, I’m proud of you all, so to each and every one of you I’d like to say a big THANK YOU.  My goal next year is not to be a ‘volunteer’ but a ‘walker’, and if you aren’t a ‘walker’ please consider being a ‘volunteer’, I promise you it will be another night to remember.    Audrey Macfarlane

25. Janice  Baird

This was our first year taking part after talking about it for the past two years and I am glad we registered in January. We thoroughly enjoyed our training leading up to the walk and it was a great incentive to keep going. When we arrived on the night we loved the atmosphere and it was great to see the effort put into the whole lead up to the walk. It was a fabulous night and would recommend it to anybody. It was hard going but definitely worth it although we didn't quite feel like the pink champagne that we had brought with us to celebrate after.  All the people who came out to cheer us on especially the ones who had the digestive biscuits and fruit were a bonus as well as the fact that it didn't rain. The volunteers did a great job and we couldn't have done it without them. I walked with my friends Jacqui, Frances and Lesley (The Latte Ladies) and we would all like to give a great big thanks to you for making it such a special night.

26. Susan Wilson

In January my sister in law, Shirley-Ann rang me and asked if I would like to join her and do the moonwalk in Edinburgh-full marathon. I jumped at the chance, thinking how challenging it would be but also rewarding. After months of training (regrettably not as much as had planned!!) the day had arrived. Nerves had been building all week and last minute preparations were made, mainly sewing more flowers on my bra!! The evening in the big pink tent was great and really got us in the mood for the night in front of us. We started really well and at a good pace. Unfortunately at 10 miles we had to give in and queue for the toilet, 45 minutes later we were off again. My body temperature had dropped massively-I hit my "wall" already!! I questioned whether or not I would be able to finish. However, with the huge support of Shirley-Ann and All of the volunteers I marched on. At 13 miles, the disco bus was like a mirage!!!!!!!!Fabulous loud music and a disco man for a little dance with on the way past, what a tonic!! I was back in party mode, bring it on!!!! The miles did seem to get further and further apart but still we kept stomping. When the wedges of orange were handed out at about 16 miles it was another nice lift. At 19 miles Shirl hit her "wall”. She had been suffering with a bad back recently and all her training had stopped. This was a worry as I knew she would not give in if the back pain came back. I kept a close eye on her and kept a steady pace and we marched on together. We got a real lift from our I-pods and seemed to bounce through the next couple of miles. I knew there was no chance of us not completing it now so to me it was just a matter of getting past these mile markers as quickly as possible!!This was made so much easier by the remarkable volunteers at the road sides. How selfless they are to stay up all night, probably freezing and exhausted and still give us the biggest smiles and “mornings" on our way past. Without their constant enthusiasm and kind words, I dare say many walkers would not have remained positive and focussed. We crossed the line after 8 1/2 hours. It was one of the most emotional experiences ever and also one of the most enjoyable in a painful way!!! I would recommend this experience to anyone and have already registered interest for next year’s London moonwalk. Of course my Shirley-Ann (my rock!) will be by my side along with our husbands. They were at the finish line waiting for us; they also had tears of pride in their eyes. Feeling like they had missed out on a fabulous experience they immediately asked if they could join us next year. We answered yes without hesitation with the condition that they leave their bra design entirely to us!! HA HA!! Again thank you to Shirl, all volunteers, all organizers and all walkers who took part, who like myself are probably ready to burst with pride for themselves x x

27. Lynda  Thomson

What a fantastic night on the Edinburgh moonwalk on Saturday 20th June. I would just like to say how fantastic all the crew members were along the way and how they all gave so much encouragement to all the walkers which really kept us going! a big thanks to them all xxx

28. Sharon Freedman

I am a first time walker, followed the training plan well and whilst a lot of friends said they fancied doing it, I was the only one who registered. I was quite happy to do the moonwalk on my own and want to encourage others to feel able to do it on their own too. It was hugely empowering and I've already registered my interest for next year too. I also want to thank the volunteers, they are fantastic!

29. Morven Walsh

My first Moonwalk with great friends by my side and 10,000 strangers! All with one goal, in memory of my lovely mum and also a friend. The one minute silence saw silent tears shed then a great feeling of determination as we all prepared to start. The most exhilarating and fun night of my life and I walked a marathon...fantastic support from volunteers and the lovely people of Edinburgh who came out to support and cheer at 4 in the morning in their dressing gowns. Well done everyone, next year can't come quick enough.....

30. William Fox

Stopped a couple of women just after midnight thinking they were attacked by some thug .I asked them if they were alright, turned out to be a charity walk called walk the uniting against breast cancer and she told me there’s a quite a few thousand behind us. I encouraged them on as it was two am in the morning and quite cold I heard music in the distance must be something on down  at the prom at Silverknowes, my goodness a big pink bus or was it blue it was Chaplin’s disco bus and the djs were going hammering and tong playing out classic disco music so I decided to stay on and encourage the walkers along with boys on the disco bus fantastic night of entertainment and the  guy with big wig and funny kind of diva gear on was hilarious I understand that Jim Black if that’s his name does a lot  for charity and his djs. Many thanks again

31. Arlene Connolly

way some and naesome had a great night. It was excellently organised and the atmosphere was great. A big thank you to all your staff volunteers, and the police who done a great job through the wee small hours. Can’t wait t see some photos. Thank you for a great night.

32. Nicky Bennison

My story is of pure pain and agony!! It is now 31.5 hours after I finished the Moonwalk (26.2 miles) and I'm elated to have completed the challenge but boy am I really paying the price! But I would not have missed out on the experience for the world... I am pleased to have had the opportunity to raise money for you and now that I have shown my friends and family all the photos of the event, I am sure some sponsors will come flooding in!

33. Jane Livesey

My 6th moonwalk, 2nd as a full mooner & first in bonny Scotland. I started moon walking after I lost my beloved Nan to cancer & intend to remain doing so in her memory.  Why Scotland?, because it was on the eve of my 40th & my best friend Sara together with my cousin-in-law Claire & sister-in-law Hayley thought it would be a gr8 way to celebrate.  We arrived at the big tent to the gorgeous voices of the swinging singers, headed for a pre-walk dinner & held hands to an emotional minute’s silence.  Nina filled us with support & reason to go & at 11.45pm we left the tent behind & headed off into the chilly air.  The walk through Holyrood Park between 4 & 7 miles was a real burner, as we climbed higher & higher in the almost darkness with our dedicated 'friends'. Unfortunately, Sara & I paced ourselves away from the other girls & at 11 miles separated as Sara continued onto the half moon finish whilst I headed out to the Firth of Forth. A couple of texts half an hour later confirmed her finish & also that Claire had decided to finish at halfway with Hayley too.  I slipped in my headphones & walked along to my tunes, pausing my I-pod as I approached each of the welcome volunteers who were, as always, fantastic, cheerful & superbly encouraging.  Walking along Portobello Road approaching 22 miles & feeling slightly alone, a friendly face approached me, Pamela a Scottish girl we had chatted to briefly way back at 6 miles who had walked on from her friends & we decided to head for home together.  The gates of Inverleith Park were extremely welcome & we walked, heads high, to a rapturous applause from the welcome crowd & crossed the line in just over 6 hours. What another fantastic evening & we will be back next year although our event has not yet been decided. Nina you truly are an inspiration & your helpers, the volunteers & walkers make this a truly magical event - thank you :o) x

34. Caroline Nugent

It was a family event for us. My girls Hannah, Holly and Olivia were volunteering for the first time and were handing out the space blankets and ponchos outside the pink tent. Husband Robert volunteered as a cycle marshal and ended up as front marker with the challenge leader. He found his niche using the radio getting roads closed and protecting the leader from the attentions of the inebriated public. He had a wonderful time!! Then he came back to cheer me and my friends, Jacquie, Alison and Diane through Holyrood Park  and on to the end. A big surprise was finding our friends Mark and Dave at mile 25 as crew. An even bigger boost!!  Highlights- the lady with the boom box blasting out "The Locomotion" at 3 seperate locations- go girl! You were fantastic!! Also the two gorgeous little girls who got up to hand out jelly babies at Lochend- you were a lifesaver girls! And a big thank you to all the volunteers who stood for ages in the cold to hand out water or just give us encouragement, you were all fantastic! I think it took as much effort to do that as "walk the walk" so thanks to you all!  We finished in 7 hours which was very respectable and celebrated with champagne and choclate in the sun  in the park afterwards. What a fabulous end to a fabulous night. Will definitely be back next year. xx

35. Emily O'Neill

Last year I walked the walk, the full 26.2 miles in memory of my mum as I promised her when she was dying that I would do the race for life - not much difference there then considering that I thought a kilometre was more than a mile and that I couldn't even run for the bus. My neighbours Wendy and Karen promised my mum as well but somehow never got around to doing either but it was a different story this year. Medal in hand I challenged them to walk the walk, then I went into my work and challenged the staff there! This year we were walking for our own staff member Jenni Costello who is living with cancer now having first been diagnosed a few years ago. It's been a hard time for Jenni but she's an inspiration to all of us - she's positive, cheery and kind but most of all she's back at work and determined to work as long as she is able. So this year we had a team of 8 girls, 5 teachers and Wendy , Karen and myself. Wendy was daft enough to dress up as the pink fairy and boy you couldn't miss her amongst all that pink tutu, sparkly glitter and lights everywhere. She also carried a pink fluffy wand with a thistle, which is our school badge. The rest of us dressed up as silly. On our way to Edinburgh we just had to stop and have a look at the big pink tent - Wendy was dancing all over the place with excitement and it was only 3pm!!! We went to the hotel, had our tea and then dressed up which included three cans of glittery spray - one whole can for the fairy!! Dressing up is all part of the fun - it's great to see so many enter into the spirit of things, including the men.  We walked with Jenni's photo and name on our backs so everyone could see who were doing it for. At 8pm we arrived - the pink tent didn't let us down and was everything I promised the girls it would be and more. Food, toilet queues (not so bad this year) and fantastic entertainment with our own Lorraine Kelly and Nina. The two minutes silence gave a chance to reflect on the past, the present and the future. For me, I thought of mum and for Jenni. It was emotional but the pink piper bucked us up! Then we were off - the route this year seemed easier - maybe because I took my pink torch for the dark bits up Arthur's seat and the fact that I had fairy lights on my hat helped with the toilet stops in the toilets!! The open bus disco was fantastic as was the entertainment as we went around, the cello player, the drummers, the Mexican band, the crew cheering us on and all the people that cheered us on the streets and from their windows, some fully dressed and others in their dressing gowns. It was lovely. We even had a group wearing pink gloves clapping as we walked around - you were noticed and appreciated!! Twenty miles in, things got hard but the thought of what others had gone through; especially our Jenni cheered us on, a few miles of discomfort is nothing. We got an extra special surprise at the finish line when our family appeared to cheer us on, including Wendy's mum and dad who were supposed to be at a wedding!!! Through the finish line and medals around our necks, emotions running high and tears running down - we had done it. KD had had it hard with her husband being knocked over and in hospital on Thursday miles away from home and a big op on the Friday - but she did it for us, the team and for Jenni despite being ill with headaches herself. So the moonwalk is over for this year. I'm doing the SunWalk in Newcastle but guess what I'm going for the hat trick next year and so are Wendy and KD. We're more than neighbours now; we're like family, Jenni's family. Who knows what the future holds for her or indeed for any of us, but we'll keep walking for Jenni and for all the others out there that need our support. We'll walk the walk for you all xxx  Emily

36. Julian Stumm

I was one of the volunteers at Edinburgh and the atmosphere in the park and on the route was completely amazing. My goal was simply to get each and every one of the 10,000 fantastic walkers through my zone safely and on their way with a smile on their face. Our job as volunteers was so easy compared to your amazing endeavour. You were absolutely magnificent and we are so proud of each and every one of you. Your determination, your spirit and for many your courage was truly inspirational. A huge well done to you all.

37. Jacqui Mcshannon

I'd like to thank the crew and volunteers who were so warm, upbeat, encouraging and kind. The whole experience was characterised by a lovely, soft, helpful, positive atmosphere - not too saccharine, not too in your face - it was the strong affirmative power of womanhood at our best. Thank you everybody for a great night.

38. Joyce Miller

First time I did a moonwalk and I loved every minute of it. I thought of my friend Marie who lost her fight and my other friend who is battling for the 2nd time. I walked with my daughter and we both thought it a fabulous experience, very emotional, superb fun, at 17 miles we said never again - we ached so much - 2 days since the race and we are now thinking of next year! A special thanks to the volunteers they were fab and so encouraging, wouldn't have been the same without them - or one volunteers jelly beans!  Thanks to them all

39. Julianne Lee

Hi everyone I’m Julianne and want to tell you my story. I have just logged on weary of limb as my muscles ache however looking at the pictures and comments on the website makes I feel all the more privileged to have been part of such a wonderful night, though I wasn’t saying that between 16 and 20 miles. In spite of the beautiful promenade and the seagulls singing those few miles were tough, however all the volunteers, those on foot and on bicycles were not too far away with words of encouragement throughout. At one point one crew member was playing the locomotion and even though our challenge was far from over we were able to shake ourselves in time to the music. We would also like to thank all those residents who came out of their houses at all hours of the night and offered us sweets and support along the way.     I was part of a team of 10 who travelled from Northern Ireland, Emily, and Alison. Jacqueline, Laverne, Avril, Pauline, Sharon, Jackie and her 18 year old daughter Jade all took part, 4 of us doing the full moon while the other 6 completed the half moon.     My moonwalk story began in 2008 while myself and Emily signed up to do the half moon in Edinburgh having been inspired to take part when I read an article about the event in a SHE magazine given to me by my mum who was successfully treated for breast cancer 5 years ago. Also at the time of registering my father was fighting oesophageal cancer but sadly died a few months before the walk. Myself and Emily had an enjoyable moonwalk 2008 however having taken a taxi to the airport at 4am to wait for our flight home to Northern Ireland sitting shivering, exhausted and emotional in the airport we vowed as much as we were delighted to have completed the walk, we would never do it again.    However that was not the end for us by any means when the aches and pains subsided we realized our challenge of walking the walk was no comparison to the challenge-faced everyday by those who were battling breast cancer. We were soon recruiting friends for 2009, some volunteered willingly whilst others required gentle persuasion (gentle being the operative word). But girls we did it and in the process have risen in excess of 7000 pounds.     Edinburgh moonwalk 2009 was made even more emotional and poignant for us as a team as my friend and colleague Jean who supported us in our fundraising was diagnosed with breast cancer in the days preceding the walk. This however did not stop her supporting us to the bitter end and prior to starting our journey to Edinburgh I received a text message, which read “Go march those streets of Edinburgh with purpose girl. Be thinking of u all Sat night. God Bless. Jean. Her support did not end there and as we were getting into bed at 6.20am on Sunday morning we received another text from Jean, still was in hospital following her mastectomy. It simply said, “Thanks for walking last night 4 girls like me! Hope u had great fun and look forward to hearing about it. God Bless Jean” What more can I say but we hope to walk the walk again someday and maybe we will be able to pound the streets closer to home in our capital city Belfast. Congratulations to all who took part and thanks to all of the crew.    Julianne Lee 

40. Gillian Mcclelland

Well, I did it - all 26.2 miles of it! Thankfully God looked down on Edinburgh on Saturday night and decided not to bring the rain down on us - for that I am truly grateful. I have to say…I've done a lot of mad things for charity, including jumping out of a plane, abseiling down a castle wall, completing an army assault course (with very nasty army blokes shouting at you all the way) but…. this was the hardest thing I've ever done in my life.     Everyone was very happy and euphoric at 11.30pm when the entertainment had finished, the warm-up had been done and the first few thousand women (of the 8,000 participants, including a few good men) moved to the start line. Then, we were off. The pubs and clubs of Edinburgh were emptying so, for the first hour or so, there were drunken supporters lining the way with words of encouragement (of sorts). Unfortunately at 6 miles Ally, my walking buddy, took ill. And this continued for the next 5 miles. At the half way point she sadly had to retire. All that training and to be floored by a bout of food poisoning on the night…terrible luck.    So, on I went....alone. To see the half marathon walkers leave the route at 13.1 miles was hard…knowing I still had the same to do again. All the training we had done just did not prepare me for the sheer exhaustion of walking through the night….and losing a night's sleep. Saturday night was officially the shortest night of the year…but to me it was the longest, loneliest night of my life. Even with all the participants around you, no-one is talking much; everyone is just concentrating on keeping their legs moving. If it weren't for the volunteers who lined the route, encouraging you to keep going, and Edinburgh's fantastic people getting up during the night to come out of their houses to cheer you on and feed you glucose-rich treats (tablet and jelly babies)....I honestly am not sure I would have made it.     Anyway, 7 hours and 3 mins after setting out I crossed the finish line….very emotional and very, very tired. The legs and feet were fine, no injuries….but everything hurt! But I was so happy knowing I had raised so much for such a great cause…and one very dear to me.     So I'd like to say a few thanks:    1. to all of my sponsors - the biggest thank you ever. Your kind donations have raised a staggering £1995 for Walk the Walk Worldwide and Breast Cancer charities in Scotland.  2. to Ally, for being my training partner for the last 3 months. I don't think either of us appreciated just how much you rely on a walking buddy, until they're not there.  3. To my good friends Lorna Wood and Jan Smith who, on learning I was on my own, sent texts throughout the night to keep me going. Girls, I don't think you'll ever know just how much that meant to me and how it did keep me going. Love you lots.  4. …and finally, to Jan who got out her bed at some ungodly hour on a Sunday morning to come cheer me on over the finish line. If I wasn't emotional enough already…seeing you there was the last straw!    So….despite me saying on Sunday morning…'Never again'…..you can catch my next bra-clad outing at the Newcastle Sun Walk on 19 July. Ally is determined to earn her sponsorship money so off we go again!

41. Jacqueline Scantlebury

Last year two of my aunts did the Moonwalk in London and told the story of what a fantastic night it was. A couple of weeks later on June 25th I was diagnosed with breast cancer, I was 40 years old with two young daughters and this news shattered mine and my family's world. I had a lumpectomy on the 14th July, I began my chemo the first week in August as my youngest daughter started pre-school and my eldest daughter started the comprehensive school, On my 41st birthday on October 31st I decided with my sister and two friends that we would join my aunts and their friends in Edinburgh for the Moonwalk 2009. I began my radiotherapy in January and started training for the walk at the end of February. On Saturday 20th June I stood in the big pink tent with 10,000 other walkers and felt the emotion and excitement all around me, there was 16 walkers in our group The Breasties and I remembered the feeling I had 360 days earlier when the doctor gave me my results and here I was ready to walk 13.1 miles, my world had turned 360 degrees. Thanks for giving me the chance to give something back. At 4.10am when we crossed the finishing line the words never again came from our mouths but tonight I've registered my interest for London 2010 and so are most of our group, I think I might be hooked.

42. Isla  Taylor

The night was so exciting, there was such a buzz. I was amazed to see so many people out there supporting all the walkers. One lady, stood out in the street in her dressing gown cheering everyone on. What really touched me was the gift one lady gave. On the prom in Portobello, a lady stood with a couple of friends, she had in her hand a box of homemade tablet. She offered the box out to the walkers and I took a piece, it was the best ever tablet, so welcome and much needed. The fact that she had planned this spent the time making the tablet, not to mention the cost. Got up early enough to be there, truly amazing, well done that lady. It powered me on. My thanks. Isla

43. Susan Reynolds

First time at the moonwalk missed the cut of date to walk so volunteered. Was a fab night everyone else was so nice and such good moods everywhere. Hopefully next year I will be walking woo hoo x

44. Rab Burns

Hi all   well what a fantastic night! after being nagged at to give her indoors, moral support as she walked the walk I was over awed at the atmosphere, on a night that was kind to walkers, volunteers and spectators, it was totally amazing, and you couldn’t help but marvel at the planning of this event, from the start at Inverleith the party spirit continued all the way through-out the entire route, loved the music from the pink bus! It certainly pumped out the tunes, and to see the faces of the walkers when they got a special mention or were played a sing-a-long track by the party bus was worth its weight in gold!! My partner close to flagging after 8 miles was grabbed by a dj in 70s gear and made to dance along to ymca? much to my amusement, the finish was spectacular and as we headed home at the end of a terrific night she was still singing ymca lol, so to the organisers, walkers volunteers and spectators a big thank u and well done all who took part see ya next year    

45. Rena Kirton-Vaughan

I wanted to do the walk last year to celebrate turning 50. I was too late to register but managed to do it as I will not be 51 till the 28th June! The excitement at the park was amazing and the pink marquee was definitely something else. Not knowing what to expect I felt sick as I entered the park with my friend, Nora. I knew that I had not done enough training but as I have had so much support I could not let everyone down. The entertainment in the tent was wonderful as was the motivational warm up. Lorraine Kelly is such a petite wee thing and I was pleased that she noticed my bra with the sequined saltires and fairy lights. At the start, still feeling sick, and we're off! Oh help! There's a great big hill right at the start. Never mind, onwards and upwards! The atmosphere was amazing and the people who turned out to give encouragement were great. I managed to complete the half moonwalk but could never have done it without my friend Nora or without my partner Allan and my daughter Jennifer who were volunteers on the night. They were waiting for us at the end and gave us huge cheer at the finish. I was shattered the next day but what a sense of achievement from a converted couch potato. I don't think I will be doing it again but would consider volunteering to support those hardy souls who do it year after year or even the "one offs" like myself. Thank you for the experience. X

46. Bobby Dunbar

This was my fourth, yes fourth Edinburgh marathon and I am an oap being 65 on the first one. I would like to thank my family and friends for the texts and calls they kept me going when I felt like I couldn't go on. Thanks to all the crew members especially those who recognised me from previous walks amazing considering how any people walk!  I am walking to give my six granddaughters a medal each tins one was for Taylor I love you. Roll on next year, I'll be back for my lovely Leah love you all Bobby Dunbar

47. Allison Wilson

Was very nervous the week before, what if I couldn't make the 26 miles(I had followed the training plan quite well but I had disasters going round  in my head!), I didn't want to let all my sponsors down.  I had terrible stomach cramps on leaving the house and had to make a quick toilet stop!  Once there though what a fantastic buzz.  All these women in their bras (I was one of the three little pigs) and the fantastic organisation.  The start was very well done and the sight of all the pink hats bobbing up the street was mesmerizing.  The crew and their team leaders were fantastic all the way round giving us words of encouragement although I kept telling them they were liars (we didn’t seem to be nearly there!!).  At half way the disco really lifted the spirits and the fruit at Granton and Leith hit the spot just right.  The supporters were fab especially the two elderly couples - they appeared everywhere - who were they and what was their story???  I still cannot believe I have actually completed a marathon - WHAT NEXT!!!!

48. Jane Linn

My sister and I were walk the walk virgins, and what a night we had! Fab! The crew were brilliant really kept us going can’t wait to do the 26 next year keep up the good work .

49. Annette  Weston

what a fabnight it was!!  last year when my mum was diagnosed with breast cancer  ropedmy sister into doing the moonwalk. we were soon joined by other members of our team and we became the dancin queens!alex, fran, juliette sandy, jaqui, berni and debs and I traned hard and long and eventually it was here! we laughed because on the friday night before we flew to edinburgh we packed ou bags,dyed our hair pink, painted our nails and put our false eye ashes on...we wonderd how many others were doing the same thing! it was more like geting ready for a party not a marathon!!! when we arrived at the moonwalk city the atmoshpere was electric...it was like a carnival. We were all nervous and exited in one! after the warm up we raced through to the start line where we stood proud in our bras and counted down! then we were off.....snaking through the streets feeling exhillarated...proud to be making a difference!we pounded the streets and at midnighti burts into a rsing chorus of happy birthday asit was now my sister alex's 40th birthday!! everyone joined in as we stomped on!!! we wrote 'its my birthday 40!' on her back and throuought the night there was wishes of happy birthday, which spurred us on! mile after mile passed and day turned into night, more vasaline and 1 toilet stop and then we were heading back to the city! we were nearly there.....we had nearly done it. My sister supported me and pushed me on, I kept saying....one foot in front of the other...over and over!!! then we saw the finish line....the 26 mile marker appeared and the park was lined with supporters who had got up at some unearthly hour to wecome us back...their chearing and shouting made us beam with pride and as we crossed the finishline, hand in hand with big trears of joy and relief rolling down my cheeks! it was 7am and we had surpised ourselves how quickly we had done it! the marshals and walk the walk team were amazin! they cheared us on at every stage, they were fantastic and so upbeat! I was so proud to be a part of this fantastic night. we walked for my mum who has made a full recovery!  there was never an option not to finish and we did it! we will  be back next year!

50. Lynne Froud

My friend Debbie and I came to Edingburgh from Bridlington, East Yorkshire to take part in the Moonwalk. We had been training hard since January and had followed the training regime in the walking handbook. Despite training  in all weathers including torrential rain and gales nothing prepared us for the sheer hard work and pain we both went through completing the full Marathon. The nights were full of highs and lows - your volunteers were fabulous and kept us going when we really thought we wouldn't make it. By the 20 marker we were both in pain - Deb had hurt her knee and my back was in spasms plus a dodgy big toe! We both walked in silence with the odd grunt at each other to acknowdedge how we were feeling! We both said that the last 3 miles felt impossible to complete - close to tears we just kept putting one foot in front of the other - it hurt to stop and it hurt to walk so we both felt that we may as well keep going. We both wanted to cry but felt that other people were in the exact same boat and were being brave - we also felt that people have suffered more through their journey with cancer that a painful knee, back and toe was irrelevant. I cannot describe the feelings of relief when we saw the finish line - we were both over whelmed by the acheivement - all I can say to others is give it a go - its emotional, painful but the most wonderful experience I (and Deb) have ever taken part in - we both feel priviledged to have been able to be part of this event.

51. Bonnie Lagreca

just to say how much I loved it and couldn’t beleive how competetive I became everyone has to try it

52. Kirsten Fisher

As a team leader (Finish Line) at this years event I would like to say a big well done to all those people that walked on Saturday night/Sunday morning and a big thank you to all of those who volunteered!!!!    I arrived on site just after 9pm on Saturday and after soaking up a bit of the atmosphere I helped out the directional teams showing people which queue to join for food, temporary tattoos etc. At just after 11pm I I started my 'proper job' of rounding up my team of volunteers to work the finish line. As we waited on another team transforming the start area into a finsh area we had the task of clearing all the rubbish off the floor of the main tent. It was all hands to the deck and we cleared it in record time!    Once the finish area was ready for us we were tasked with sorting out around 10,000 medals and having them set out ready to be picked up easily when the mad rush began! The first half moon walker crossed with line just after 2am and  from then on there was a constant flow of walkers all crossing the line until the last one crossed the line at around 11.20am!! I was given the honour of giving the first full moonwalker their medal which was great as she seemed to be in total shock as she crossed the line!.     Once the last person crossed the line to a massive cheer all the equipment needed to be taken back to the volunteer tent. After starting at just after 9pm on the Saturday I finally left the site at around 12.15 Sunday lunchtime!! After 15 hours on my feet my legs were really feeling it but I wouldn't have changed anything. The feeling you get from being there to cheer people over the line and to give them their well earned medals it amazing. I am hoping to walk the half next year but I will then switch back into volunteer mode and hand out the medals to the remaining walkers!!!     It is Tuesday morning now and my legs have just about recovered but my throat is still feeling the effects of way too much screaming and cheering as people crossed the line. I seemed to come into my element late morning on Sunday and a combination of no sleep, too much sugar and the adrenaline you get from working at such an event meant I was on a high and was cheering people over the line – even as those around me seemed to be fading a little….    A huge big thank you to all those who volunteered on the finish line (and in other areas). You all did an amazing job and the event wouldn’t be able to rub if it weren’t for all of you giving up your time. Finally I would like to say thank you to all the Walk the Walk staff who ran such a great event – a special thanks to Jo and others who were manning the finish line. Hope to see you all again next year!!!

53. Roger Bell

What fantastic event very well organised I took part in the half while my wife completed the full. After I finished I also volunteered to help give out the medal's I we be back next year and taking part in the full I hope.

54. Ian Mycko

hi people   I was on car 3 on the night, got stopped by four lovely irish girls at marker 17  wait for it !!!  they asked us where do turn off for the half moon (you can imagine the smiles on our faces) we told them they had just walked 17 miles & we all burst out laughing, we asked them '' where are you hats '' reply was  we didn’t bother wearing them therein lies the answer, it gets even better one of the girls numbers was ?  13  you couldn’t make this up, we all laughed all the way back to moon city   regards   ian

55. Howard Lester

Hi, as one of the few men walking I want to say what a wonderful experience it was to do the Moonwalk. I walked with my fabulous partner Denise and between us we did the full marathon. Many months ago, Denise told me that she was thinking about doing this thing call the Moonwalk, it was an over night marathon length power walk in aid of breast cancer research. Not that long ago we lost a dear young family member to breast cancer and I hear so many of my friends in treatment for cancer that I it took me no time at all to propose that I do the walk with Denise, who I love dearly.  We are both, shall I say, around retirement age and Denise is extremely fit and motivated. I, on the otherhand have never done anything like this before, a teeny bit overweight and not exactly an olympic athlete. The thought of doing this challege filled me with intrepidation, but, hey we only live short lives and I had to do this, for Denise, for the family and for all those who have met the challenge of this disease.    We followed the training programme sent out with our applications, encouraging each other when, after a very busy day at work we didn't want to set out in the cold rain for a training walk. But on we plodded, week after week, we actually got to enjoy the challenge. The walks got futher and more challenging, but we marched on. The biggest challenge was the bra.....not wearing it but how to decorate it, I knew all those years as the panto dame would pay off and the last week we spent night after night with needle and thread, stitching and designing our masterpieces. The great day arrive and on the train on the way up from York were lots of other walkers with stories to tell. Well here we are two days after... we did it, can't believe it but we did. I'm so proud to have done it and to do my bit for breast cancer....next year, come on feet keep walking ??    Howard and Denise 

56. Yvonne Bonnar

I would just like to say a huge thanks to all who organised the walk and the volunteers, they were absolutely outstanding as well as encouraging all the walkers every step of the way, they are a sight for sore eyes at the 23 - 26 mile point, they keep your chin up, encourage you and never stop saying how proud they are, they really are a vital part of the night, thank you.  I would also like to say how proud I am of my two fellow walkers who had done it for the first time, Deeon Hills and Marion Dick, I am so proud of their determination and they were a joy to walk with.  I myself have done the Edinburgh Moonwalk 4 times and each year it just gets better.  Well done to everybody.  Yvonne Bonnar, Prestonpans.

Tina Buchanan

I would like to say a huge thank you to the wonderful volunteers who helped make our moonwalk a wonderful experience.I was taking part in my 3rd moonwalk along with  my friends Linda (2nd Full) & George Logan (1st half moon), Sharon Hawthorn(1 Full moon and 2nd half moon), Doreen McGowan (2nd Full) and her sister Vicki (1st full).  We set off at 11.45 and were soon striding out up that HILL !!! what a killer. It was a nice clear night and not too cold, best conditions in any walk I have taken part in so far. Unfortunately due to a recurring foot problem Doreen had to pull out, but never mind she will be back next year. Vicki was on a roll and left us far behind. It was a tough part at 11 miles saying goodbye to George & Sharon, knowing we had 15 miles to go, but Linda and I went on and had some great moments. We finished in 7 and a half hours our best time yet! We are extremely proud to have raised around £900.00 between us all. It is a great experience and I encourage everyone to have a go. It is an experience you will never forget.

Lesley Sibbald

Hi, Saturday was my 2nd Edinburgh Moonwalk and I just wanted to say that I thought the Venue (Inverleith ParK) and the route were much, much, much better than last year.  We had more room to walk and road closures were better and the Park was just great. Well done to everyone involved  and here's hoping we make the £3m!

Patricia Little

I feel honored to have taken part in such a momentous  event.   The atmosphere was electric, but my biggest thank you goes to all your magnificent volunteers.   Their cheerful faces and enthusiastic encouragement was wonderful.   Thank you very much.

Lynn  Walton

I have just completed by 8th walk in the past I have always had a friend to walk  with me but the last couple of times I have done it on my own it was a comment I herad when I was walking back which was I could never do it on my own I just want everyone to know you are never on your own as you 15000 other people doing it with you and of course the very speical volunteers that keep you going and what a night to remember       

Carissa Henderson

I just wanted to say a massive thank you for such an amazing experience! Three of us entered and it was third time lucky. We pulled out of the London Moon Walk in 2008 as my friend fell pregnant and I didn't want to do it alone. And then this year I pulled out of the London half Moon Walk as my friends didn't get in...but we all got in to Edinburgh full Moon Walk. Two of us managed to complete it in 6hrs35mins and one completed the half marathon instead as she was having knee and back troubles. We came up from south England so had no-one supporting us along the way but the volunteers were amazing, always around the corners with a smile and encouraging words! I feel really sad the whole experience is over now but will cherish the memories and know that the money we raised is helping a very worthy cause and the people we did it for were watching over us and smiling on in encouragement.

Kirsten Fisher

This was my 3rd year volunteering on the finish line (2nd as team leader) and I am already looking forward to signing up for my 4th year!!!! It was an a amazing night and the atmoshphere at the start was electric! I just want to take this opporunity to say a huge big thank you to all the Walk The Walk Staff that make such an event possible and those who volunteer on the night.  Having done it now for three years the excitement and the feeling of satisfaction I get from handing out the well deserved medals doesn't dilute over time. This year was just as special as the first. Roll on 2010 so I can give up another 13hrs for such a great cause hehe

Julie Cowans

Myself, Allison Walton, Angela Bowyer & Sue Kelly were the 4 ladies in the multi -coloured belly dancer outfits. We lost a dear friend,  Wendy to cancer and have friends who have experienced breast cancer and are in remission. We had the most amazing time from the moment we arrived in Edinburgh and are still on a high now. Can we say a massive thank you to all the organisers and the  volunteers on the night who called us 'The Janglies' and hope we didn't annoy too many other walkers! It was fabulous, emotional, uplifting and we smiled and giggled all the way around - most importantly we raised awareness and a fair bit of dosh! Thankyou, Julie Cowans

Shona Humphrey

What I want to say is thank you to all the volunteers for their help making it a wonderful night.  Especially the ones on Arthurs seat that must have been very creepy waiting for the walker to come passed.  I would also like to thank all those people who came to support us and decorated there houses or played music for us it really made the night extra special.  I would like to thank my friend Lucy for doing the walk with me.

Clare Hill

WOW, what a night,  what an experience, what an event!!! I entered the Full Marathon to support my now bestest friend Mo, who entered before me but was after some encouragement and company and I did not regret it 1 bit. We trained well and I can honestly say that we could see the training working week by week, especially with all the different types of weather conditions we had but nothing can prepare you for walking during the night. The event was so well organised from information before hand, arrival details down to space blankets and ponchos!  Mo & I were in separate colour starts but it wasn't a massive issue as I just held back and started with the Orange. You can not prepare yourself though for the sheer amount of people at the start but we didn't let this put us off. We Power Walked from the off, making sure to press start on our Garmin as we crossed the line. Toilets were spread out well and the queues weren't too bad, the streets didn't get too dark and when they did the lights from our very flashing bra's helped us through. The miles whizzed past at first and before we knew it the beautifully pink Castle stood before us and what a fantastic uplifting sight. The disco at half way gave us a much needed lift especially as it got colder by the sea front but we were determined not to cover up our bra's which took a total of 9 - 10 hours to decorate, so we soldiered on with the excellent support of the Crew and 2 lovely ladies who appeared at regular intervals with bags of sweeties for all (thanks ladies)!!  We had some tearful moments on route, remembering why we were doing this and when it got tough it helped us through thinking of Mo's sister Jean who is currently battling Breast Cancer and what a crave soul she is, well done Jean! We knew we had such fantastic support from all our closest family and friends back home in Malvern, Worcestershire and all over the World but receiving little text messages from them all during the night carried us through to a very tearful 26.2 miles! We crossed the line holding hands and with tears rolling down our faces in a very pleasing 6hrs 16mins!   It goes without saying that the efforts of all involved was worth every blister and every £ we raised. We are hoping to have a finished sponsor total of £1000 and with our intial taget of £500 we are over whelmed by the support we had from all round.   We will be back and we are now already thinking of doing the Bristol Sun walk. I have ran the London Marathon 2 years ago but can honestly say this was harder for several reasons, it's night time, it's cold and it takes longer but boy it was just as enjoyable!!!  Thanks to Mo for asking me to join her, I have some wonderful memories from a perfect weekend in Scotland and now have a new best friend that I will cherish for ever.  Thanks to all.  Clare xx

Gareth Price

The moonwalk was going to be an easy, 26 mile stroll, course it was.     Some of us met at Lloydies on Saturday morning, Sue and me for coffee and to enjoy the pre moonwalk buzz. Sheree and Zoe arrived to do the 11:15 spin class and afterwards we met Louise in the clubroom for another coffee before going back to mine to collect my wife Elizabeth. We headed off to a local pub for a pasta lunch before heading north to Lancaster to collect two of Sue’s friends, who were going to join us for the challenge.     We’d been loaned by a fellow member at Lloydies a fabulous 9 seater people carrier that had a luggage area almost the size of our front garden. Any worries over the storage of eight people’s luggage had vanished the day before when I picked up the vehicle from Preston, but I’d fretted some over that. I drove us to Scotland, and many coffee and comfort break stops later, we arrived and parked a mile from Inverleith park in Edinburgh. Each of us, changed and prepared for our power walk marathon. By 9:30pm, we headed down to the start area, got some food and then joined in the fun in the huge tent, tv celebrity Lorraine Kelly and a host of other Scottish TV people on stage, unknown to us ‘southerners’ from the north of England.     Start time seemed to be upon us so quickly, but first a mass warm up, with a guy I’m sure Id seen at the Manchester 10k just a few weeks earlier, then Kat and Lec in the 11:50 wave of starters, the two friends from Lancaster, then Sheree, Sue, Elizabeth and me at just after midnight, followed by Zoe and Louise at 12:15. The pace was quick, we headed into the city, the atmosphere was amazing, then around the castle, inspiring, and back down into city streets, people clapping us, traffic, being made to wait, hundreds of cars at each junction, headlights on, drivers, passengers, patient as we poured through the streets.     Out into the outskirts and up onto exposed hillside, fascinating, just miles away from the castle, small mountains. Cold now, I needed my first comfort break, no time tho’, keep going, no time for that, it’ll ease. It didn’t, then Elizabeth said she needed to go, next official toilet stop, who knows where and we’d seen such huge q’s at the last toilet block. A band was playing, somewhere in the distance, we dropped out of the wind into a small glade, bushes everywhere, just what we needed so we both slunk off into trees, oh my word I needed that, joy and bliss, but as my eyes grew accustomed to the even darker dark of the woods, all around me ladies squatting, oh my word I looked the other way, another lady, oh my goodness, eyes skywards. A minute or so later, back into the masses of people, onward    Just over 14 miles, a text from Louisne, ‘how are you doing, we are 13 miles, yey!!’ I replied, but just as I pressed send, the bothersome blister on my toe burst, agony, I slowed down to compensate, and still I had just over 12 miles to go. On and an, the torture of this slow trudge to the finish just seemed never ending, I was several minutes behind Sue, Sheree and Eliazbther now and no matter how hard I tried, could not make up the gap on them. My iPod helped, some chocolate, some fruit jellies, sips of water, on and on and on!     Eventually, the mile markers gave me some comfort, 22, then 23, slowing, hurting, 24, painful legs, locked in cramped walking action, 25, the feeling around me, buzzing, 26 miles, I’m feeling so tired now, my legs are so sore and stiff, then a sign, 500metres to go, 7 hours had passed, Id failed to achieve my objective, drat, but now, I’m nearly there, the tent, people clapping, cheering, lots of smiling faces, then, my medal, then Elizabeth, a hug, s few tears, then Sue, Sheree, Kat and Lec, more hugs, elation, relief. Then Louise and Zoe arrived, everyone shattered, more hugs, everyone promising never again. Stretching, essential, then, coffee, life saving. Done!

Anne Adams

This is my 3rd Moonwalk and this time I did the half moon. I just wanted to tell you that I thougth this route is better than the previous one. A lot of the roads were cordoned off which made walking a lot easier and meant there was less crowding which had been a problem before So well done for better road organisation- the volunteers and the poice were great and really encouraging

Pauline Kernot

This was my first Moonwalk and what a night! As we set off on a perfect night the first mile flew past - this was going to be easy. As mile 18 approached the going was decidedly tough. We kept going, laregly due to the fantastic support of the crew and public and made it to the finish, what perfect weather for a walk along the prom wearing a decorated bra! I would like to thank the crew from the bottom of my heart for their unstinting support round the course. They smiled and cheered and encouraged us along. The disco bus was also a well needed boost at the halfway point and the music carried on the night air all along the front. What a night to remember.

Jackie Chan

I would like to say how amazing the night was, this was our first time, we completed the 26.2 miles and it was hard work at times but the crew were totally amazing with the support they gave everybody.   I will definately be signing up for next year...brilliant night!

Michelle Ball

This is my 5th Moonwalk and after walking in London for the past 4 years I decided to walk in Edinburgh for a bit of a change.  I have walked on my own in the past but this year I was lucky enough to recruit my two dear friends to walk with me.  We had such a fabulous weekend preparing our costumes and everything came together perfectly.  We are all from New Zealand so the 'kiwi' theme had to be an obvious choice.  My mother lost her friend to cancer only a week before the walk so there was no doubt in my mind who I'd be walking for.  Also a friend past away of breast cancer a few years back and she is someone I will always remember in every step I take during the Moonwalk.  We had so much fun 'gathering strength' in the big pink tent before the walk began.  We created quite a stir during the walk and we were world famous in Edinburgh for 6 hours!  We even got our picture in the newspaper which made our day! We were all so impressed with Edinburgh during our 'marathon' walk to the finish.  The course was fantastic!  You couldn't get better scenery even if you paid for it!  The locals were so kind and supportive.  I was blown away by a local lady who set up shop in her dressing gown outside her house handing out sweets and words of encouragement throughout the night.  We loved the disco bus that entertained us along the way, not to mention a fabulous jazz band and other local entertainment that was on offer as we walked past. The volunteers was truly fantastic and they are a credit to the night as a whole! I think London needs to take a leaf out of Edinburgh's book.  The atomosphere was electric!  I would like to thank everyone who made the Moonwalk in Edinburgh as amazing as it was.  I wouldn't hesitate to return to bonny wee Scotland next year to pound the pavements.    

Caroline  Argent

I walked the 26 miles on Saturday 20th June with my best friend Becky. What she didn't mention to anyone on the night is the fact that she's 23 weeks pregnant! I think she's very brave for having agreed to still do the walk, let alone cross the finish line with me at almost 10 o'clock in the morning! She thoroughly deserved her medal, I'm very proud of her and I just wanted to thank her for sharing the 26 miles with me. It was a real privilege and I love her very much. xxx

Tara Mccarthy

Edinburgh Moonwalk  20-21 June 2009    My team, congregated in Edinburgh in preparation for the Moonwalk, Tara S, Emma, Helen, Lucie, Liz, myself and the woman who got us into this, our Personal Trainer Cathy Faughey.    We’d gone for a military theme so donned combats, war paint and dog tags along with our military styled bras.  We’d been given the heads up that the food provided on the night wouldn’t be fantastic, so off we popped to a well known pasta and pizza parlor to stuff ourselves with carbs to see us through the night ahead.    On arriving at the huge pink tent at Inverleith Park (we could see it from the plane when we arrived).  There were bra decked women and a few men everywhere some in the most fantastic bra designs other more modest with tassels and frill covering up their wobbly bits, but all with the same thought in mind, to raise money for breast cancer research and support.    As the start drew close we were given a pep talks by Nina Barough (sparkly bra) and Lorraine Kelly (tartan basque) and we all hold hands for a minutes silence before we were called to the starting line.  It was great to finally get started but the enormity of the task ahead hadn’t really sunk in.    We began at midnight at brisk pace.  As we walked through residential areas people were looking out of their windows and waving, one lady stood at the bottom of her garden with tray of cakes for anyone who wanted them, but our eyes were on the target ahead, it still didn’t seem that far!.    We hit the 1 mile marker, cheered and had a photo taken, only 25 more to go.    As we’re going though the city a chap falls out of a bar looking slightly the worst for wear and stands at the sidelines gyrating at the walkers.  One walker takes things into her own hands and squirts water at him a cheer goes up from both the walkers and a small crowd of drinkers that were stood outside the bar.  The damp drinker walked off sullenly.    Mile 2, take 15 minutes off our finish time for a quick loo stop, we’d not been able to go before because of the queues, but better go now rather than risk a longer queue later on.    At mile 5 things started to get hard, a long hard hill up to Arthur’s seat, but we were still fresh and powered up overtaking people as we went.  Surely this isn’t going to be that bad.    It was around mile 9 when we seemed to tire a little and the distance between mile markers started to get further.    At Mile 11 down the half mooners begin to peel of and take the last 2 miles back to their finish.    Mile 13, the half way point, things are looking up, half way there, no point turning back.  As the sun began to rise over the Forth we walked down hill towards a disco bus, there to entertain us, we could hear it for miles.    At this point Cathy and Liz take a detour to the loo.  We won’t see them again for 6 miles.    So along the coast line as the sun rises.  We seem to be walking for a very long time without any mile markers.  We consider there may not have been anything to fix them too and keep going.  My legs really begin to ache and a jog on the spot for a few steps to relieve the pressure from the walking muscles.      We seem to be walking for an age across this stretch of coast line I’m sure we must be coming up to the 18 mile marker.  In the distance we spot the water stop and just beyond, the marker.  I’m a little short sighted so have to walk a little further before I make out the 16.  My heart sinks, have we really still got 10 miles to go.    The next few miles are hard, we try and keep each other talking but sometimes nothing works are you become fixed in your own little world of pain.  My feet feel red raw, my lower back hurts and my calves are in constant pain.    We pass an older man being helped by one of the crew.  He doesn’t look well.  As we keep walking we hear an ambulance come to pick him up.    We continue along the coast, and spot some toilets with no queue.  A quick dash (ouch – shouldn’t have tried to run, it may use different muscles but I’m on the same feet, in an out – no time lost). And on we go.    Mile 19 Cathy and Liz finally catch up with us again but I’m beginning to think I won’t manage it.  I begin to feel sick.      By mile 20 I was near my end.  I couldn’t eat, my body was racked with pain.  I was truly at my mental and physical end.  I tried to hide how teary I’d got by putting my sunglasses but the girls all see and quietly being to rally round even though they are all in their own personal hell.    It’s too late to turn back now and there is no way I’m letting my team down or those who’ve sponsored me.  I have no choice I have to keep going.  Tara S offers me a jellybean.    We begin to make our way back though the city.  A lady standing at the bottom of her drive in a silver dressing gown giving words of encouragement as we pass by.    Each mile seems to take forever and we’re constantly being overtaken.    Mile 22, we pass just a few yards from our apartment.  This is torture.    Mile 24 the end is in site, again we take photos at the mile maker and suddenly realise that when you stand still you get dizzy, we’ve been moving for that long it’s like being sea sick.    Mile 25, back through the residential streets, just waiting for the entrance into the park.  Finally it’s there.  And in the distance the 26 mile marker, time for a full team photo we grab the nearest person to take our photo then turn to the finish just yards away.    8 hours 6 minutes and 40 seconds (oh – and take of 15 minutes for that first loo stop).  That’s under 8 hours.    We make our way over to collect our medal and pose for our official finish line photo.    One thing I will remember, the lady sat on her steps at the front of her house, she’d decorated it in pink with ribbons and hats with a note saying thank you.  You only do that when you’ve been directly affected by breast cancer and it’s for people like her that we do this.    Thank you to everyone who has sponsored me.    So far I’ve raised £575.01    If you would still like to donate my page is http://www.justgiving.com/taramccarthy/    So, would I do it again?    Never…        say never

Janet Muff

This was my 2nd Edinburgh Moonwalk and felt I had to let you know that I felt it was even better than last year. The route , even though there were a few more hills was brilliant so many more people out wishing us well on our way. I think this was due to Arthur's seat being further on in the route. What fantastic volunteers all so happy, encouraging and very smiley people. The two ladies down  at Granton handing out jelly babies was so thoughtful and an energy boost that was gratefully received. There was also a lady on Quality Street with pieces of banana and chocolates with her house railing decorated in pink, generously handing out and encouraging us all. It made our night, how brilliant everybody was.My friend Janice and I improved on our time 7hrs last year to 6hrs 36mins this year and still looked as fresh at the end as we did at the start. We sat in Innverleith Park eating bacon rolls watching other walkers finish which was brilliant. Watching hundreds of walkers snake up the path at the park towards the finish was very moving, and we felt very much still part of the event even though we had finished. Lots of walkers appeared to breakfast in the park once they finished which I thought was a bonus compared to the area at the Meadows, where everybody just filtered away. Just a big thanks to the Moonwalk team, all the volunteers, the police and all involved this year felt so special.Even managed to smash my fundraising target.  Cheers  Janet   

Helen Mills

In January of this year my friend Lila asked me if I fancied doing a marathon in my bra! I thought that sounded like fun so I went home that night and registered.  I was not long out of hospital having had a lupus flare up but I thought it's long enough away! I trained hard and on the night was excited and emotional. The volunteers were amazing and the highlight was 3 little girls in their dressing gowns at 5.30am standing in Portobello with trays of sweets for us all. We completed in 7 hrs 20 mins and when I phoned by husband at 7am to tell him I was crossing the line I burst into tears! The glorious sunshine made the event complete.

Annmarie Wynne

wot a great nite. weather was fab! it was my first time dun it in 7 hrs so got more of a challenge nxt yr . nxt time tho need more music it certainly gives u more of a buzz , ur friends def keeps u goin. on the the last few miles so alot of girls on their own and they found it hard so  keep together if u can. c u all nxt yr xxx .

Margaret Powell-Joss

The half-way point down by the Firth of Forth was my high point and low point of the walk. I thought my mobile phone was broken; I had lost my team; and it was there that I discovered I had also lost my almost-new digital camera. I spoke to a volunteer in an orange jacket, who took my details and said the people walking this walk would probably turn it in.  At the end of the walk, footsore and utterly exhausted, I spoke to a helper in an orange jacket. It turned out to be the same young man, Steve, who went to find out whether my camera had been handed in. While he was gone, I sat myself down on my space blanket in the lovely sunshine and checked my mobile phone. It had come apart but I managed to put it together again and it works just fine. A few minutes later I was re-connected with my team. Another few minutes later, Steve returned with the news that a camera that fitted my description had indeed been found. Eventually, he managed to retrieve it for me and my blog now has some great photos, which otherwise would have been lost.  A wonderful person, very helpful, like most of the helpers along the way.  As soon as my really awful blisters have all healed, I will look back with pride and pleasure to a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I'd like to encourage everyone to train up well and to join in on a MoonWalk -- maybe Edinburgh next year? I might go along as a helper :)  Thank you, everyone who made it possible.

Bobby Dunbar

This was my fourth edinburgh marathon. it was greeat. enjoyed every hour I plan to walk six one for each of my grandaughters this time it was for taylor I love  her heaps two more to go roll on next year love to them all and everyone who took part and supported us bobby dunbar

Alison Clark

The first edinburgh moonwalk 4 years ago I was going through my cancer treatment,my family were great but the one person who has been there every day is my mate PAM .we have done the last 3 walks together,our outfits getting wilder by the year,we love everything about the night from begining to end,EVEN THE WALK!!!.next year we are both 50 and all being well we will be there again.i want to say a BIG thank you to all involved in making the night one to remember everyone was so helpful and friendly.AND big thanks to PAM for being there to help me through my treatment,taking me out,making me laugh,AND making our outfits every year.see you all next year!! alison clark x

Beryl Pressley

What an amazing night! My family were devastated by the loss of my brothers wife to breast cancer in 1984, aged 36. Life has gone on but she is often in our thoughts. My own personal journey over the last year meant I was physically abe to take on such a challenge and at last do something in her name to help others in the same situation. It was a very emotional journey for me and I wept as I finished. I feel so proud of what I have achieved. I just wanted to say a BIG THANKYOU to all the volunteers who spurred everyone on with their applause and encouragement which at times meant more than they knew. It was a personal challenge and I am so pleased I did it. Despite saying during the walk that I would never do it again I hope to be back next year with some more friends. Hats off to everyone and we should all feel proud to have done our bit to help so many

Susanna Scamell

It has taken me a  week to recover and pluck up the courage to share my story. A friend, Janet, did the Edinburgh walk last year and persuaded me to join her this year. In august one of my yoga students, Geraldine, died of cancer and I thought I would like to honour her courage and remember her by walking in her memory.     I was anxious that I might not be able to keep up with my friend so I set about getting my self 'up to speed' , starting last september.    I was horrified when Janet entered us in the 6 to 7 category and so upped my training. Then about 6 weeks before the event she said she was aiming for 6 hours - panic set in and the training programme was ratcheted up again! - By now the poor dog was having trouble keeping up, and definately looked like she might need carrying towards the end of the 20 mile practice!    In the spring my first power walking teacher, Annie, also passed away. She had fought off breast cancer in 2002 but sadly it returned to her liver this year. Now I really HAD to walk as a way of thanking her for the joy she brought to me with those first lessons in power walking.    When the night finally arrived I was so terribly nervous; I really didn't want to let any one down, my self, my friends , my sponsors, or Geraldine and Annie. My main concern was having to stop and queue at the loos and so I thought that if I got a quick start, with less people in front of me the queues might be shorter!     We got a good start and as the gates opened my heart was beating so fast that I just went straight into top gear, I was like a greyhound out of a trap. All plans to pace myself vanished and I just gave it my all. I lost Janet immediately but I just put my head down and went. I enjoyed the challenge of Arthur's Seat, and I found all of the lovely warm hearted pub leavers who were cheering me on most encouraging. So much so that I felt obliged to whip off my T shirt and reveal my bra, as I had been too cold and shy  to do so at the pink tent! I felt better walking in my bra - like I was really part of things now.     So, on I hammered. At 13 miles I realised that I might perhaps have used up a bit too much of my resverves too soon, but the Proclaimers singing out into the dark from the disco kept me going. By 18 I must have been looking a bit the worst for wear because several of the stewards asked in very concerned tones if I was OK. I thought that at 20 all would be well and I would just fly the last 6 homeward miles. WRONG! Digging deep didn't come up with much and I was most disgruntled as first two people (dressed at bunny rabbits) passed me and then two more very able looking women. My morale started to fade - would I make it at all? What on earth was I thinking about, going so fast so early on. I just wanted to make it to the finish. I started imagining energy coming up through the earth into my feet to carry me on, and pretending Annie was walking with me. Those last few hills on the way back to the park were rather tough but then, suddenly, I saw the tent! Wow. As I shot over the finish line ( a final burst of oomph), and got my medal I just couldn't belive that I was aloud to stop walking now. It had begun to feel like I might be walking for the rest of my life. As I turned and looked at the clock no one was more amazed than me - it said 5.27. I guess that was the time so I had finished in 5 hours and 47 minutes. I am still in disbelief. I sat on the grass and wept - waking my husband on the mobile to tell him I was finished - in more ways than one.    It took a few days to recover. I was weepy and confused. I think I was just totally depleated. But on about day three I was getting a few admin things done and remembered that I really ought to be learning some French for our holiday - now usually that thought is rapidly followed by the tendril of a thought which leads back to a gigantic weed of a belief that I can never learn French, being pretty thick. But this day I had a new thought. I thought ' yes I can do that - if I practice and put my mind to it, I can achieve things'.     So I say a huge thank you to all of the walk the walk team for giving me the opportunity to help those with cancer, and in the process to heal my self.  Thank you,  Susanna. Norfolk.

Angela Singleton

Me and my 3 sisters and 2 nieces completed the full moon walk together. It was a great experience for us to get together and take on a challenge. It hasn't happened before and I really enjoyed the opportunity to spend time with them and achieve our aim of completing the walk. We wanted to do it as a team and get to the finish together. This we did and I was very proud and happy of our team.

Margot Hunter

I did the half moon 2 days after having my fourth dose of chemotherapy following breast cancer surgery.  I don't think there could be anyone more pleased than myself to finish.   It all started in January this year, I found a lump in my left breast.  I saw my GP as soon as I could.  He referred me to the breast clinic at the Western Geneneral Hospital in Edinburgh.  Having gone through numerous tests, breast cancer with spread to lymph nodes was confirmed.  I underwent a mastectomy & axillary node clearance op. on March 6th, my son's 7th birthday. I had been determined to to the Moonwalk this year & had been encouraging my colleagues to take up the challenge prior to my finding the lump.  Eleven colleagues including 1 male from my veterinary practice ( I'm a vet), took up the challenge as soon as they knew my situation.  We held a sponsored dog wash to raise funds.  I started chemotherapy on 17th April & have been having 3 weekly treatments.  It has left me pretty tired but I kept walking whenever I felt up to it.  On the 20th June I really did not feel like walking, but the whole atmosphere & my friends & colleagues helped me round the half moon course.  I  felt pretty tired for the next week, but I am so glad I did it.  We all need help to overcome breast cancer and I know the money raised will help so many.  I'm not sure how much myself & colleagues raised but it runs into a few thousand pounds.  Best wishes to everyone, keep on walking.  

Liz Donaldson

I found a lump in my breast and was diagnosed with cancer in April 2006. My mum (who had Parkinson's had been taken into hospital in Feb that year. My dad was so worried and upset about mum that I thought it best to say nothing. If I didn't need chemo then they didn't need to know......... How hard was that. Also going through a tough time at work, but hey, knowing me, I don't do it by halfs. Had my first op (lumpectomy) end of May 2006 along with sample of lymph nodes taken. (5 out of 6 had cancer). Was scheduled for 2nd op on Fri 28th May but my mum died on the Wed evening (26th May). Told dad I would cancel.. no way. Said if you're mum was here.. bla bla bla. I had 1 day to make arrangements before I went into hospital. Should've been there for 5 days but they all knew I needed out on the Monday as mum's funeral was on the Tuesday. There I was in black dress, drain running up through the sleeve, on cord 3 as they reckoned 2 would be too much for me. I was devastated I took mum's day away from her as all the family could talk about was my cancer. I'll never forgive mysekf for that one. At the same time.. the 1st Moonwalk was happening in Edinburgh. Missed that one but been there ever since. Started off as volunteer in Directional area and this year was a Team Leader on the finish line. Said 'Thank You' to so many people.. I was diagnosed at the age of 48 with no other family history of breast cancer. It can happen to anyone.... I'm a survivor and be back next year to thank all the walkers again!!  Liz x