Steps for a Cause: Karen to Embark on Macmillan Mighty Hike

On 14th June 2025, BMW Sales Retention Executive, Karen Leigh-Sloan will be embarking on the Macmillan Mighty Mike to help raise donations for those living with cancer. 

The award-winning Macmillan Mighty Hikes are a series of testing marathon and half marathon hikes, held in some of the most scenic locations of the UK. All donations raised by participants help to provide vital cancer services, research and campaigns to achieve better care.

We caught up with her as she prepared for the big day…

Hi Karen, what inspired you to take part in the Macmillan Mighty Hike?

“I was absolutely devastated when I lost my amazing mam suddenly in March 2023 after a very short fight with lung cancer at the age of 69. She was my best friend – we did everything together from concerts, spa days, lunches, trips away……absolutely everything. She has always been my rock and the person I turn to for advice, she always had a balanced view - I miss her so much every day. I went on a trip to Wales (Betws-y-Coed) last year and saw Mighty Hikers coming in to finish. I had never heard of it so when I saw there was one in the Lakes, I got us signed up just to do something for an amazing cause. Unfortunately, mam got very poorly with her cancer very quickly and never got a chance to utilise the amazing services that Macmillan offers but I want to do my bit. She has always been a true inspiration to me, and this is my way of honouring her memory.”

Tell us about your chosen charity.

"Macmillian is a UK-based charity that helps people affected by cancer. Right now, almost 3.5 million people are living with cancer in the UK, and by 2030 this number is expected to rise to 4 million. Macmillan is there to support every one of them. They offer a wide range of services to help people live life as fully as they can, including physical care, financial assistance, and emotional support."

What's the route or distance you're planning to cover?

“The Lake District Mighty Hike is a full 26-mile marathon. We walk around the hills which surround Ullswater, starting and ending at Dalemain near Pooley Bridge.”

What do you think will be the biggest challenge on the day and how do you plan to overcome it?

“The biggest challange will be pain in my ankle from hypermobility which gives me frequent shooting pain from tendons being stretched. This will make a hike of this length difficult, but I will have my mum in my heart and mind the whole way to help me finish.”


How will you be celebrating once you’ve crossed the finish line?

“With a hug, a glass of champagne and a toast to my wonderful mam. We have friends looking after my daughter for the day as it’s an early start – got to be at Dailmain at 6.45 am. Hoping they will be there to cheer us home.”

Tell us one song that must be on your trail playlist.

“Summer of 69 by Bryan Adams, Philadelphia by Bruce Springsteen and Bat out of Hell by Meatloaf - who were some of my mams favourite artists.”
 

On behalf of the Lloyd Motor Group team, we would like to wish Karen the best of luck for the big day, and we look forward to seeing how many donations can be raised for this incredible cause.
 

If you wish to get involved, make sure you follow us on our socials for the latest updates on Karen's progress or donate directly to her funding page below.
 

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