Trekking the Great Wall – thank you to our incredible supporters

28th May 2025

 We want to say a huge ‘thank you’ to all of our amazing supporters who trekked along the Great Wall of China on the Acorns China Trek. They took on the challenge of a lifetime to raise vital funds to help us continue providing our specialist nursing care to children and families across our region. 

This incredible group of people raised over a jaw-dropping £155,000 – absolutely smashing their original target of £60,000. In fact, we had so many supporters sign up to the trek (double the number we expected!), that we increased the target to £105,700… and they exceeded that too! We are completely blown away by their dedication and generosity. 

Among the group were current and former Acorns staff, loyal supporters, and friends old and new. Before they set off, we caught up with a few of them to find out what inspired them to take on this unforgettable trek – and how they were feeling as the adventure approached! 

Louise was inspired by Acorns

Louise, who works at Acorns, is no stranger to the incredible impact our hospice care has on children and families. 

“I was inspired to take part in the charity walk because I see first-hand the amazing work Acorns Children’s Hospice does. Knowing I could help raise funds and awareness while pushing myself physically and mentally will make it feel even more meaningful.” 

Louise was loving the training – a great excuse to get outside and explore. 

“Dare I say I’ve got the bug and have fallen in love with hiking!” 

She was especially excited about that magical moment when they’d finally get to step onto the Great Wall:

Three women on the Acorns China Trek holding an Acorns Children's Hospice poster.

“It’s going to be such a surreal and proud moment. Knowing we’ll have trained, fundraised, and come together for something so meaningful – that’s what will make it unforgettable.” 

Of course, she knew it wouldn’t be without its challenges. 

“Being away from my son Harry, my husband, and our dog Chester will be tough. And let’s just say I’m not looking forward to the bugs and basic toilets!” 

People climbing up some steep steps on the Great Wall of China.

A cause close to Emma’s heart

Emma saw her 40th birthday as the perfect reason to do something extraordinary – and what could beat scaling one of the world’s greatest wonders for a cause close to her heart? 

“I wanted to do something amazing after turning 40, and what better way than trekking across the Great Wall all in aid of an incredible charity.” 

Training went well, even if the odd push from her trekking mates Lindsay, Sarah and Julie was sometimes needed. “They give me a boost when I need it!” 

Emma was most looking forward to soaking up the whole experience: 

“From getting to know our fellow trekkers to creating memories that will last forever.” 

Like many others, leaving her family behind was her biggest worry – but she carried their love and support with her every step of the way. 

Coventry Support Group 

We can’t forget the brilliant Coventry Support Group, who have been raising funds and awareness for Acorns for over 36 years. Founded by Martin Banbury, the group sets out each year to raise £50,000 – and to date, they’ve raised a phenomenal £1.5 million for Acorns. 

When the Great Wall Trek came up, Martin and his wife Felicity, who’ve previously taken on challenges in New Zealand and across Vietnam and Cambodia, rallied five other members to join them. 

Together, the group raised over £36,000, on top of setting individual training plans, hosting fundraising events, and even organising group training walks which, quite rightly, ended with a bite to eat and a drink. 

“We’re really looking forward to sharing this challenge with other like-minded people. There’ll be a huge sense of achievement once it’s done, knowing that we’ll have pushed ourselves and raised such a significant amount for Acorns.” 

Six people wearing Acorns tops, all with a pair of shoes hanging round their necks, and one is holding a donation bucket.

Acorns China Trek – an incredible achievement

To everyone who took on this once-in-a-lifetime journey trekking along the Great Wall of China, thank you. You’ve made such a difference to the lives of the children and families who rely on Acorns, and we couldn’t be prouder to have had you walking for us.

We were cheering you on every step of the way. We hope you enjoyed every moment, you all achieved something truly incredible.

If you’re interested in joining one of our future treks or events, check out our events calendar.

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