Eight close friends -most of whom have spent their careers working for the NHS- are taking on a 120km challenge over just 7 days this August, by walking a section of the Camino Pilgrimage in Spain to raise vital funds for the Cardiff and Vale MND Association.
The idea began with Hazel Robinson, former Director of Workforce & OD at Swansea Bay University Health Board, who was inspired by a holiday to northern Spain:
“I was holidaying last summer and visited the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela. I saw many pilgrims arriving after doing the same route and it left me thinking what a great experience it would be. I wondered if any of my friends would be up for it and, before I knew it, there were 8 willing participants. A year later, here we are, about to embark on our adventure for a wonderful cause.”
Leading the charge is Suzanne Granger, whose sister, Chris (Shirl) Matthews, was diagnosed with MND in 2018. Now, with seven of her closest friends, she is committed to raising awareness and funds for the charity that has supported her and her family through diagnosis.
“It was Hazel’s idea to do part of the Camino pilgrimage and it seemed a great idea to use the opportunity to raise funds for this wonderful charity. We are really looking forward to the challenge and have been on many long training walks over the past few months to prepare ourselves. We are truly grateful for all the generous donations which will help so much to support those living with MND and their families.”
Meet the team
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Suzanne Granger – Now retired, Suzanne worked a 23-year career at AA Insurance Services in various roles, before working in the NHS as an HR Business Partner for Aneurin Bevan Health Board.
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Dee Campbell – Originally from South Africa, Dee is now based in Cardiff. She has 10 years in the NHS and another 10 in education.
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Tracy Myhill – Former CEO of Swansea Bay University Health Board and Welsh Ambulance Service, now Chair of NHS Wales Shared Services Partnership Committee, MOD Non-Exec Director, and Director of her own consultancy.
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Janet Wilkinson – Recently retired after 39 years in the NHS, most recently as Chief People Officer for NHS Greater Manchester.
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Hazel Robinson – Retired Director of Workforce & OD at Swansea Bay University Health Board.
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Caroline Bird – Career NHS professional, now Delivery Director at North Bristol NHS Trust.
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Anne Claydon – Retired dental director at Rhiwbina Dental Surgery and current volunteer with Cancer Research Wales.
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Clare Baker – HR Director at PayStream Accounting Services Ltd and qualified Life and Success Coach (BSc Hons, LLB Hons).
In preparation for the challenge, the group have been training extensively — some even internationally, with sessions in Spain and Australia. Their goal is to raise £5,000, and they are already well on their way thanks to incredible support.
Funds raised will go directly to the Cardiff and Vale Branch of the Motor Neurone Disease Association, a dedicated local group working to support people living with MND and their families in the region. The branch provides essential emotional, financial, and practical help -from home adaptations to support groups- all powered by fundraising and volunteers.
The team’s fundraising will help the branch continue its vital work and ensure people like Suzanne’s sister, Chris, receive the care, dignity, and support they need.
“We are delighted these ladies have chosen our charity for what is a very tough challenge. This is a fantastic opportunity to fundraise and raise awareness into this awful disease. Thanks everyone for your donations and comments to date, and I’m sure we all wish them the very best for this challenge.”
— Markus Matthews, Vice Chair, MND Association Cardiff & Vale
