Laura’s story

Why I’m Walking the Himalayas

At 30, I ran the Great North Run.
At 40, I walked the Great Wall of China.
So it only seemed fitting that I should find another Great Challenge to mark my 50th year.

How lucky am I that my wonderful friends Kirsten and Deb, who were beside me on that wall, are once again by my side as we take on the mountains together. And then there’s my lovely friend Traysi, who bravely decided to step out of her comfort zone, lace up her new boots, and take on something she’s never done before — she really has no idea what she’s in for!

This journey has felt different to the last two. Life has a way of shifting the ground beneath you, and the past decade has certainly brought its share of changes and challenges. There were moments when this trip felt impossible — too much to take on, too far away, too hard to fit into the reality of everyday life. And this past year in particular has tested me personally and professionally in ways I couldn’t have imagined.

But, as with anything we take on together, once we said yes, there was no going back. We’ve trained when we could, supported each other when we couldn’t, and somehow found our way here — on the edge of something extraordinary.

So why am I walking the Himalayas?

Because I love a challenge.
Because the last seven years have reminded me just how strong — and fragile — life can be.
Because I want to raise money for Macmillan, who supported my husband James so beautifully in his final days and whose kindness meant more than words could ever say.
Because I’m thankful — thankful that I’m here, that my body allows me to do this, and mindful that not everyone gets the chance.
Because I’ve always wanted to see the Taj Mahal.
Because this isn’t an ordinary holiday; it’s an adventure of the heart and mind.
Because stepping outside my comfort zone reminds me that I’m still growing, still living, still me.

Turning 50 has made me reflect on what really matters — friendship, love, resilience, laughter, and the courage to keep saying yes to life. This trek feels like a celebration of all of that. A way to honour where I’ve been, acknowledge what I’ve lost, and open myself to whatever comes next.

So here’s to new adventures.
To the friends walking beside me.
To everyone cheering from home.
And to James — whose strength and spirit will be with me on every step of this mountain path.

Please donate at Macmillan Cancer Support

Here’s a glimpse of my past, my present and my future.