Jo’s Two Million Charity Steps Around Wales

A Master beekeeper from near Whitchurch is preparing to take on a three-month fundraising journey down Offa’s Dyke and around the coastal path of Wales in aid of Nightingale House Hospice.

Jo Schup will be taking at least two million steps on a 1100 mile walk that will start and finish at Nightingale House in Wrexham in memory of her dear friend, Helen who was cared for at the hospice.

Her journey will begin on Monday May 22nd from Caffi Cwtch at Nightingale House Hospice. From there Jo will head to Pontcysyllte Aqueduct where Helen’s partner will meet Jo on his old canal boat, `Greenman’.

It will be a poignant start to the walk as `Greenman’ carried Helen’s wicker coffin covered in roses on the way to her funeral. Paul, along with Jo’s family and friends will be supporting her on her way around Wales and Nightingale House will be following her progress on Facebook and Twitter.

Speaking ahead of her journey, Jo said: “The care Helen received at Nightingale House was second to none. I was so moved by the work of the hospice and the support given to patients and their families that I knew I needed to do something to help.

“It will be a very emotional journey and I will be thinking of Helen every step of the way, but it’s also an opportunity to truly embrace the beauty of Wales and I know it will be an amazing experience.

“The walk itself is longer than John O’Groats to Lands End so it will be a challenge.”

Hospice Fundraiser Amanda Kinsey will be at Caffi Cwtch to start Jo off on her walk and Individual Giving Officer Christine Dukes will be waiting at Pontcysyllte to greet her later in the day.

Christine said: “Everyone at Nightingale House wishes Jo all the best as she takes on this remarkable feat. We are truly grateful for her inspirational efforts and wish her a safe, enjoyable and incredible journey. We will all be rooting for her.”

Donations in support of Jo’s efforts can be made via her fundraising page. More information on individual challenges available through Nightingale House can be found here.