A local NHS supporter walked an incredible 1,000 miles in 80 days and raised over £2,000 as part of the Health Way Foundation Spring To Mind Challenge, which aims to raise funds to support local community and mental health services across NELFT. 

Debra Launder, who has lived in Hornchurch for over 25 years, was furloughed during the COVID-19 pandemic and decided to make use of her spare time by walking and raising funds for the NHS. 

Debra said: “I started walking in the first lockdown for my wellbeing and mental health as I would normally keep my mind and body healthy at the gym and through swimming.

"I have seen how difficult it is for our children and young adults not being able to see their friends and the lack of social stimulation and being stuck indoors may undoubtedly cause implications eventually. Poor mental health is definitely taking its toll on our next generation, and by walking for the Health Way Foundation, I hope to be working to give them a better chance.” 

Stacey English, charity fundraising officer at NELFT said: “We are very lucky to have Debra support our charity and we are cheering on this amazing effort. With 232 miles to go (and she’s only on day 46!) she is going to smash her 80 day target!”

Health Way Foundation is the Trust Charity and we focus on helping our NHS do more. Our purpose is to support NELFT to provide exceptional community and mental health care for patients across Barnet, Waltham Forest, Redbridge, Barking and Dagenham, Havering, Kent and Medway, Thurrock and Essex. 

Our Registered Charity Number is 1048931 and all donations are used to fund and enhance local additional patient activities, NHS staff wellbeing, and non-essential equipment that falls outside of NHS funding. As we transition out of COVID-19 restrictions, and the impact of mental health through lockdown, we are here to support and raise awareness of the benefits of getting outside, exercise, fresh air, being with nature, and caring for each other.

If you would like to hear more about our charity, become a volunteer, donate, support by running your own event, hear about our events and our Ambassador meetings, please email Charity@nelft.nhs.uk or call us on 0300 555 1201, ext 51279.

Please join us for our next fundraising event: Captain Tom 100 Challenge here.