A MELKSHAM woman will spend ten days hiking through Peru in November to raise money for Bath’s Royal United Hospital (RUH).
Sabrina Cox, who has lived in the town for 42 years, will complete the 52km trek in memory of her husband, Gary, and daughter, Helen.
Sabrina is hoping to raise thousands of pounds for the hospital’s neurological department through its Forever Friends Appeal.
She told Melksham News, “I wanted to do something to raise money for the hospital in memory of Gary and Helen.
“Helen had such a positive attitude and believed there was nothing she couldn’t do. I know they would both have supported me in this and I promised Helen I would challenge myself as she always did.”
Helen, who was a teacher, died five years ago following a stroke after an accident in Egypt. Gary, a founding member of Melksham Rugby Club 39 years ago, died in 2015 after suffering from multiple system atrophy (MSA), a degenerative neurological disease.
To kickstart her fundraising, Sabrina will hold a quiz night at Melksham Rugby Club on Friday 31st March, and a race night at The Pilot in Bowerhill on 21st April.
The ten-day trek will take in ancient Inca trails through the Andes and visit the ruins of Macchu Picchu.
“I’m extremely excited!” Sabrina said. “I have a cross-trainer and some walking boots and poles, and have started wearing them in already.
“It’ll be the first time I’ve been to South America so I’m looking forward to it.”
Sabrina has raised over £500 towards her fund already – to contribute, donate online at
www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Sabrina-Cox1
