30/04/2026
Frances & Paul are set to achieve something incredible in May - the completion of the entire South West Coast Path (all 1,014km / 630 miles), walked in loving memory of their precious granddaughter, Cara 💛
Starting in 2021, the past five years of their journey has demanded unwavering strength: relentless climbs, unpredictable weather, and long, exhausting days. Alongside these challenges, they’ve witnessed moments of profound coastal beauty and the utter kindness of strangers. Through it all, every step has been taken with purpose, a tribute to Cara, and a reflection of enduring love and remembrance of a little girl taken too soon.
"It was in October 2017 that our little granddaughter, Cara, was diagnosed with this illness. She was 14 months old. At the time we knew nothing of Neuroblastoma and its effects on children and their families. We were soon to find out.
Cara received wonderful care and the best available treatment at the RVI in Newcastle. However, these were deeply testing times. Long periods as an inpatient meant one or other of her parents was always by her side. Outpatient visits involved early starts; operations meant no food for Cara from early morning for hours. Family weekends revolved around the hospital. Her brother spent much time with grandparents. The whole of family life was turned into turmoil.
It was heartbreaking to witness how brave Cara was, and to live the rollercoaster of her treatment, both inpatient and outpatient, alongside her parents and her brother, who all did their best to create some sense of ‘normal’ family life.
After more than two and a half years, it was devastating that she could not be cured, despite this very frontline treatment. On 29th February 2020, little Cara was eventually taken by the illness. After a massive, aggressive resurgence of her tumour, she passed into eternal life. The huge gap in her family will always remain.
However, we will always be grateful for knowing her throughout her short life. Cara was a loving child, full of life and fun, cheerful and brave, and she continues to be remembered and loved by so many." 💙
With the final stretch now in sight, and over £12,000 already raised for neuroblastoma research, let's come together to support Frances & Paul!
Take a moment to leave a message of encouragement, support and love in the comments. Your words will mean more than you know, we'll make sure they see them all, as they take on the final leg of their journey next month.
For Cara 💛
https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Frances-Armstrong1
