15,000 Walk The Walk In Their Wonderbras

Chiswick power walkers raise £5,000 for Breast Cancer Research

This Saturday saw a group of courageous Chiswick women take to the streets of central London in their Wonderbras to raise money for Breast Cancer Research.

Deborah Allen, Sophie Christian, Sally Hopgood, Sue Manley, Dee Murphy, Eva Pasek, Barbara Reid and Billie Walsh were amongst the 15,000 women and men to take part in the Moonwalk, the only power walking marathon in the world.

Apart from a few sore knees and aching feet, they all completed the course and raised, so far, a laudable £5,000 including generous sponsorship from The Park Club.

Dee Murphy said “It was an amazing and incredibly emotional experience. Many people were walking for friends and family who are suffering with or who have died from this terrible illness.

As well as all the walkers, there were over 1,500 volunteers spread over the course of the walk who’d spur us on with words of encouragement, it was wonderful.”

The ladies are giving themselves a well earned rest before planning next year’s walk. The Park Club has invited them in for a complimentary day - including use of the indoor and outdoor pool, sauna Jacuzzi & steam rooms, gym and classes. They have also included a free half hour facial or mini massage for each person as
well, finishing off with a bottle or two of champagne. Marcus Philips of the Park Club said, "Call it a recharge day!"

Emma Brophy

May 18, 2004