On this World Cancer Day, we are honoured to share the inspiring story of Fiona Hornsby, a Liverpool businesswoman who is celebrating the end of her cancer treatment by participating in the Glow Green Night Walk to raise funds for Clatterbridge Cancer Charity.
Fiona, who co-owns three popular Liverpool pubs with her husband Dominic, was diagnosed with vulva cancer in December 2023. Her journey included surgeries, such as a hysterectomy and lymph node removal, followed by radiotherapy at The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre – Liverpool. Throughout her treatment, Fiona was deeply moved by the kindness and compassion of the staff at Clatterbridge.
Reflecting on her experience, Fiona said, “As well as wanting to say thank you to Clatterbridge and give something back, this walk is a big aim for me to start getting back to fitness now my latest scans have shown no recurrence of my cancer. It might be 8 kilometres, but to me, it will be like a marathon. It is giving me a reason to get moving and getting my fitness back after 14 months of surgery and treatment.”
Fiona’s determination and positive outlook have been supported by her “small village” of family, friends, and pub customers. She fondly recalls how her community rallied around her, providing support in countless ways. “At first, I didn’t want to tell people about my diagnosis but slowly I did and so many people helped in different ways. People to listen, people to talk to, people to make me laugh. We called it an adventure. I met people I wouldn’t have met, people I didn’t know, and we did things we didn’t think we could do.”
Now, Fiona is focused on the Glow Green Night Walk, which she and Dominic will complete with friends, celebrating their achievement back at the Denbigh Castle. The Glow Green Night Walk, sponsored by Arriva, takes place on Friday, 7th February. The event starts at The Museum of Liverpool on the historic waterfront, with walkers gathering from 6pm to register and enjoy pre-event entertainment. The walk begins at 7.30pm and takes participants past some of the city’s most famous landmarks, many lit green for the event, including the Royal Albert Dock, Liverpool One, both cathedrals, St George’s Hall, and of course, The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre – Liverpool.
There is a pause for reflection on the steps of the Metropolitan Cathedral, where walkers can dedicate a lantern to a loved one. Entry costs £20, which covers the cost of the walk, and participants are encouraged to fundraise through sponsorship. Lanterns can be bought for £5. Arriva is providing free bus travel for all walkers, and discounted parking is available at Q Park Liverpool One.
As we celebrate World Cancer Day, let Fiona’s story remind us of the strength and resilience of those affected by cancer. Join us in supporting Fiona and Clatterbridge Cancer Charity by participating in the Glow Green Night Walk. Together, we can make a difference.