Hold My Walking Stick Challenge

Four souls, one path, and no idea how many hills there really are. Because 20 years of Yes to Life deserves a truly epic walk.

This October, four incredible people—Robin Daly MBE, Miquel León, Sue de Cesare, and Sara Spinks—will lace up their boots and take on one of Spain’s most rugged and soulful journeys: the Camino de Santiago’s Winter Way. Over nine days, they’ll walk more than 230 kilometres through ancient Roman trails, remote Galician villages, misty mountain passes, and riverside vineyards, from O Barco de Valdeorras all the way to the sacred steps of Santiago de Compostela. But this journey is about much more than reaching a destination—it’s about honouring 20 years of impact, and walking with purpose to raise £40,000 for Yes to Life.

Each member of the team brings their own reason for walking. Robin Daly MBE, who founded Yes to Life after losing his daughter Bryony to cancer, sees the Camino as a tribute to two decades of life-changing support for those facing cancer. CEO Miquel León-Canete walks to mark a bold new chapter in Yes to Life’s mission, while Sue de Cesare, former Executive Director, returns to the charity for this incredible challenge with deep gratitude for the community built over the years. Sara Spinks, coordinator of Wigwam cancer support groups, will walk for all those who’ve ever sat in a Wigwam Group seeking hope and understanding. Together, they are united by shared values: courage, connection, and compassion.

“This Camino marks more than a milestone—it’s a tribute to everyone who’s walked with us over the last 20 years. As we reach Santiago, we carry the stories, the courage, and the hope of the many lives we’ve touched.” Robin Daly MBE – Founder, Yes to Life

“This is about connection—between people, land, and purpose. The Camino is humbling. It’s the perfect way to honour our past while walking boldly into the future of integrative cancer support.” Miquel León-Canete – CEO, Yes to Life

“I joined this walk because Yes to Life has always been a journey of transformation—now we literally walk that path. Every step is a thank you to those who believed in this mission from the start.” Sue de Cesare – Former Executive Director, Yes to Life

“For me, the Camino represents the Wigwam spirit—togetherness, strength, and mutual support. I’ll be walking for every person who’s ever sat in a Wigwam group seeking light and support.” Sara Spinks – Wigwam Coordinator

The Winter Way—“Camino de Invierno”—is the road less travelled, offering quiet reflection and profound beauty. As the pilgrims pass ancient bridges, centuries-old monasteries, and forested hillsides, they will be carrying with them the stories and support of hundreds who have benefited from Yes to Life’s work. It’s not just a challenge of endurance, but a moving act of solidarity—with every step echoing with purpose.

By donating to this challenge, you are not only supporting a powerful physical and spiritual journey, but helping to ensure that Yes to Life can continue its vital work. Your generosity fuels free cancer support programmes, empowers people to make informed decitions, and expands access to integrative care across the UK.

This walk is the grand finale to Yes to Life’s 20th anniversary—a celebration of what’s been achieved, and a declaration of what’s still to come.

Walk with us, and help make every kilometre count.

Stage-by-Stage Journey

Day 1 (4th of October): O Barco → A Rúa de Valdeorras (≈14 km)

A gentle, scenic leg among vineyards and ancient cave-wineries of Vilamartín. We pause to visit the Roman‑era A Cigarrosa bridge and the historic Church of San Esteban at the Forum Cigurorum

Day 2 (5th of October): A Rúa → Quiroga (≈27 km)

A middle-mountain trek across Galicia, through Albaredos and Montefurado with its 2nd‑century Roman tunnel, down into the charming town of Quiroga. Expect olive groves, mediaeval charm, and mountain forests

Day 3 (6th October): Quiroga → A Ponte (Barxa de Lor) (≈15 km)

Our biggest climb yet: following the Sil river to the high forest, descending to Lor valley. A long, rewarding day through quiet woodland and scenic vistas .

Day 4 (7th October): A Ponte (Barxa de Lor) → Monforte de Lemos (≈21 km)

Through the Ribeira Sacra’s terraced vineyards and Romanesque monasteries. We cross the Miño River and follow old pilgrim trails to Monforte, a vibrant waypoint for reflection and local cuisine

Day 5 (8th October): Monforte de Lemos → Chantada (≈30 km)

Day 6 (9th October): Chantada → Rodeiro (≈26 km)

A balanced hike across open countryside and rising towards the Sierra del Faro (1 153 m), the highest point on this path

Day 7 (10th October): Rodeiro → Bergazos (≈26 km)

Rolling rural terrain, crossing rivers such as the Arnego, before reaching A Laxe—where we rejoin the Camino Sanabrés/Silver Way

Day 8 (11th October): Bergazos → San miguel de Castro (≈28 km)

A long but scenic day along Sanabrés, passing viaducts above the Ulla River. The infrastructure becomes more supportive as we approach Santiago

Day 9 (12th October): San miguel de Castro → Santiago (≈23 km)

A final, joyous stretch into Praza do Obradoiro, timing our arrival before the Pilgrim’s Mass. A day of quiet reflection and celebration.

Why This Walk Matters

20 Years of Yes to Life – We’re ending the celebrations of two decades of holistic cancer support with a powerful statement: physical challenge united with purpose.

Ambitious £40,000 Goal – Every pound fuels essential services: wellbeing programmes, outreach, and initiatives across the UK.

A Story for Every Step – From Robin’s inspirational leadership to Miquel & Sue’s vision and Sara’s community-strengthening, each of us brings unique meaning to the trail.

How You Can Join Us

Donate – Sponsor miles or pledge per km. Every contribution brings hope and progress.

Follow & Share – We’ll post daily photos, milestones, and stories on social media.

Cheer Us On – Messages of encouragement during the walk and personal gestures make a huge difference.

This Camino isn’t just a journey—it’s a celebration of legacy, resilience, and community. Each stride takes us through centuries of Galician history and natural beauty, weaving our own story into the tapestry of pilgrimage. And with your help, the steps we take will mark a milestone for Yes to Life—and for all touched by cancer.

Please support us. Visit the page to donate here: Hold My Walking Stick Challenge – JustGiving