Life is cruel. We lose too many good friends to this awful disease, cancer. It affects everything, and sadly no-one is out of its reach.

5 years ago, we lost Chris Laughton, the best man at my wedding, my children's godfather, and my best friend's husband. Last September, we also lost Marilyn Livingstone. Since becoming a single parent, she supported us, built us up, and championed our family.

Both are missed more than words can say.

North Devon Hospice is the phenomenal charity who have helped both our friends. Towards the end of his life, Chris stayed in their bedded unit, receiving the best imaginable care. Not only did they allow his family to stay close-by, but supported them through the difficult time too. For Marilyn, the hospice enabled her to stay in her own home, fulfilling her wish to be surrounded by family. The outreach nurses provided around-the-clock care and comfort.

Two different lives, two different families, and one charity, North Devon Hospice, supporting them to the very end.

As they are not government funded, North Devon Hospice need to raise £6.2 million EVERY year to continue to support people fighting cancer and their families.

Last summer, we had an idea that started as a tiny seed. It grew and grew in length and difficulty, until we came up with this challenge.

On Sunday 28th July, setting off from Welcombe Bay, we're backpacking the entire 300-mile Cornish Coast, finishing at Cremyll. Over the years on family holidays we've enjoyed walking large sections of the beautiful coastline, so we thought why not trek it all in one go!

Due to Kaitlyn's university commitments, we only have 3 weeks to complete this challenge. We plan to be entirely self-sufficient, carrying our supplies and equipment all the way. Kaitlyn is used to trekking in her reserve army unit, but has encouraged me to step outside of my comfort zone and push myself now I have hit 50.

We know that money is more hard up than ever for many people at the moment... Sponsorship is a big ask, however, anything you can spare, would mean the world for this charity. We will be funding this challenge ourselves so all monies raised will go direct to North Devon Hospice.

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.