Five incredible supporters have raised around 15,000 after trekking the Great Wall of China for five days.
An incredible group of St Barnabas Hospice staff and supporters have trekked for 35 hours over five days, covered more than 50km and reached the dizzying heights of 2,200 metres above sea level. 
In some places on the wall, the team were walking on unrestored sections which were less than a metre wide and had sheer drops on either side. They stayed with local lodges each night and sampled a whole range of local delicacies during their stay, as well as being able to immerse themselves in the local culture.
Caroline Swindin, Corporate & Community Lead at St Barnabas Hospice, is one of the brave staff members to take on this challenge. Caroline said:
“I’m over the moon that we all finished the trek as a group. What a fantastic experience it was, and I couldn’t have asked for a better group of people to share it with. The biggest challenge was probably how uneven the ground was
“Both myself and my colleague, Becca, have very personal reasons for trekking the Great Wall, as well as being fortunate enough to work for such an amazing charity. My mum was cared for by St Barnabas several years ago and the care both her and the whole family received was second to none. A close friend also received exceptional St Barnabas care. I will be forever grateful and will always continue doing all I can to raise money and awareness.” 
Becca Hooton, Community Fundraiser at St Barnabas Hospice, added:
“It was very emotional when we completed the trek, and even more so when we arrived back in England and were reunited with our family. My mum, dad, neighbour and friend have all been cared for in a hospice and my journey was for them. I never imagined I could complete such a huge challenge, but I’m so proud of myself and the team for getting through it together.
Caroline finished:
“We have achieved so much more than we ever thought we could. The number of steps along both restored and unrestored sections of the wall at heights has been relentless but have presented us with the most stunning views imaginable.
“We are so incredibly proud to have undertaken this challenge, raising funds and helping to make a real difference to the amazing care and support St Barnabas provides to thousands of people throughout Lincolnshire.”
Next year, St Barnabas Hospice is asking supporters to take on the challenge of trekking to the summit of Mount Toubkal in Morocco. This trek will take place over three days, with two additional days for flying out there. It costs £99 to sign up and the Hospice asks trekkers to raise a minimum of £1,650 in sponsorship money. To view more information or sign up, visit www.stbarnabashospice.co.uk/toubkal2020.