Local woman Samantha Lafferty, from Culcheth, will take on an extraordinary challenge this November as she treks across the Sahara Desert to raise vital funds and awareness for The Joshua Tree, a charity supporting families affected by childhood cancers.
From 18–23 November, Samantha will step far outside her comfort zone to cross vast sand dunes, endure demanding physical and mental conditions, sleep beneath the stars and experience the culture and landscapes of the Sahara – all in aid of a cause close to her heart.
Every step of the trek will support The Joshua Tree, a charity dedicated to providing emotional, wellbeing and practical support to children with cancer and their families. The organisation supports not only diagnosed children, but also parents, siblings and extended family members for as long as support is needed.
Speaking about the challenge, Samantha, 53, said: “This journey is about so much more than adventure. Childhood cancer impacts entire families, and The Joshua Tree does incredible work to ensure those families never face that journey alone. I wanted to take on a personal challenge that could help make a meaningful difference – raising both funds and awareness for such an important cause.”
The Joshua Tree offers a lifeline to families navigating one of the most difficult periods of their lives, providing vital mental health and wellbeing services from diagnosis through to remission and recovery.
To date, the charity has supported more than 690 families and approximately 2,400 individuals through its centres in Cheshire and North Wales. Demand for its services has risen significantly, with the charity experiencing a 450% increase in demand over the past two years.
Hannah Winter, Head of Fundraising at The Joshua Tree, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to Samantha and our whole group of trekkers for taking on this inspiring challenge in support of families affected by childhood cancer. Fundraising initiatives like this help us to continue delivering essential emotional and practical support to families across the North West when they need it most.”
The trek also continues growing support for The Joshua Tree from businesses and communities across the region. Barratt Manchester and David Wilson Homes North West have continued to demonstrate their commitment to the charity through sponsorships, fundraising initiatives and participation in events supporting families affected by childhood cancer.
Samantha, who works for a local housebuilder, is encouraging friends, colleagues and the wider community to support the challenge through donations, with every contribution helping families access vital care and support services.
To donate, visit: https://www.justgiving.com/page/samantha-lafferty-1
