Machu Picchu is one of the most iconic sights in South America, and the culmination of Sarah Ball and her daughter Stephanie’s magnificent Inca Trail trek in May 2015 through the Peruvian Andes. They will be trekking on Inca-paved paths and steps, the route takes them up through lush cloud forest to the demanding Dead Woman’s Pass at 4200m. Continually climbing up or dropping down, the trek is steep at times, and the altitude adds to the challenge.

 “I’ve never done anything like this before,” says Sarah. “But my youngest daughter Stephanie wanted to do something big to support four of her friends who’ve all been diagnosed with the same cancer, Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, over the last 8 years.

“The Inca Trail challenge called out to us both. I’ve always wanted to do this trip and doing it to support Macmillan Cancer Support makes it so worthwhile.

“One of my daughter’s friends is still undergoing treatment, but the others have all come through it and they’re OK. Hodgkin’s Lymphoma affects young people and it’s been horrible to see Stephanie’s friends and their families live through the uncertainty. That’s why when she suggested doing something in support, I wanted to pitch in.

 “We have to raise over £8,000 between the two of us, so we will be thinking of some fun ideas to help part people from their cash painlessly.”

The trip takes place in May 2015. Follow our training and fundraising antics on Stephanie and Sarah’s big trek to Peru on Facebook.