Jeannie and Alice walk the Santiago de Compostela

On the 7th June, one of the most exciting fundraising challenges to be undertaken for ELF this year will commence, as Jeannie Player and her daughter Alice walk the final 116km of the famous pilgrim trail, the Santiago de Compostela.

Jeannie has been a patient at the Haematology Centre for the past 15 years and has always wanted to tackle the Camino. This year, she felt the time was right and wished to combine this dream experience with supporting ELF, who have been there for Jeannie throughout her treatment journey. Jeannie says:

"In 2008 I was diagnosed with a rare incurable blood cancer, which is being managed with drug therapy and medical interventions. At the time of initial diagnosis I had two young children, aged 8 and 3 years, but I was determined to live a full and active life.

Since 2011, I have been under the care of the Haematology Unit at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital where my current medication is Chemotherapy by way of tablets and a new drug which targets the protein that affects my illness, which I will continue to be on throughout the walk.

I have always wanted to undertake the Camino Frances pilgrimage but the illness and then Covid intervened. However, now I feel able to complete the last 116km of the walk. I am blessed with the support of family, friends and my church in my life, and Alice my daughter will be accompanying me.

I would like to raise funds for ELF during this challenge to acknowledge the work they undertake across the Haematology Unit, in supporting all those who have blood cancers. Across the years they have been there for me, providing kindness, tea and biscuits (especially during treatment) and counselling, not just to patients but the wider family too.

The smallest things mean the most when you are vulnerable and ELF have been truly wonderful to me over the years, as well as the Drs and Nurses and supporting staff who have been pretty special too."

We wish Jeannie and Alice much luck in this wonderful challenge, and look forward to sharing photos from their trip upon their return. The pair have already raised a brilliant £1,500 in sponsorship, which will ensure that ELF's services are available for other families at a time of need.

To sponsor Jeannie and Alice, please visit: Alice Player is fundraising for ELF (justgiving.com)