Ann Farrell at one of the spectacular Cuban waterfalls
19-APR-06
A woman from Bolton has raised over £3,000 for charity after a 9 day trek
deep in the Cuban countryside.
Ann Farrell and her fellow trekkers took on the challenge for The National
Endometriosis Society. She raised a total of £3,028 for the charity, which
aims to raise awareness and understanding of endometriosis. It is a charity
close to the hearts of most of the participants on the trek who either
suffer from endometriosis or live with someone who does.
The 14 strong group took on steep railed paths, narrow jungle paths, steep
uphills and ended on a suspension bridge. At the end of the long days the
group were also rewarded with spectacular views of waterfalls and late
afternoon swims in crystal clear pools.
Some of the £2,500 needed for the trek was raised with the generous support
of Ann’s colleagues and customers at Bolton at Home. In November 2005 she
organised a fund-raising evening attended by friends, family, colleagues and
customers. She sold football cards, goods on internet auctions, and had a
page on the Just Giving website. For the last 6 months she sold home made
sandwiches to eager colleagues who queued in anticipation each Thursday in
their Valley offices.
Ann said “It was a life changing, once in a lifetime experience, extremely
hard work but well worth it. I would do it again in a heartbeat.”
In March 2005 Ann committed to the trek and set about getting fit in
preparation. She started walking in the local area and gradually built up to
15 miles. She also had a personal fitness programme devised by a local gym.
Ann added “I am now much fitter and healthier than before and I have kept up
the walking. It is amazing how Rivington and Anglesarke can evoke memories
of the Cuban countryside.”
