On Saturday 13 September, an inspiring team took on the Thames Path Challenge for Momentum.

Walking side by side, the team brought together parents supported through our Echoes bereavement service – George, Emma and Rob, with Vanessa and Charlotte from our Echoes team, and our CEO, Sarah Woods. Together, they embraced the 28km challenge, setting off from Bishops Park in Fulham walking all the way to Hurst Park in Hampton.

Our walkers’ friends and family hopped aboard the Momentum boat to cheer from the river – it was a big highlight which really gave the team an extra push to the finish line. One of our walkers, Rob, even swapped his walking shoes for our Mo the owl mascot outfit for the final 2km – what a star!

Talking about the challenge, Charlotte, said: “It felt a bit daunting in the morning, but it was a lovely day. We walked together, talked, and remembered our children. We were supported along the way by family, friends and the Momentum boat, and were cheered over the finish line! All the time in our minds was the reason why we were doing this, which helped us to get to the end. We are very grateful to everyone who sponsored us, to the families who took part and to everyone who came along to support us too.”

George added: “I’m so happy to have completed the challenge for Momentum and to help give something back for all the amazing support they’ve given us since our son Jimmy died. It was such a great day, with great company. It was lovely to speak to other echoes parents and members of the Momentum team, our chats made the walk feel like it went so much quicker. It felt incredible to be part of such an amazing team.”

Reflecting on the day, Emma said: “My best moment was watching Rob dressed as Mo ‘fly’ towards the finish line! As well as having such great company the whole way. It was lovely walking alongside other Echoes families, learning about their stories and how Momentum have supported them. A truly amazing charity that has given us so many wonderful experiences and memories we will all cherish forever.”

Momentum’s CEO, Sarah Woods, said: “It took me seven hours, but every step was worth it. I walked the first two and a half hours with some of our supported families who shared their inspiring stories and told me all about their children – it helped me push through the aches and tiredness to be reminded exactly why we were doing this. Having my family and a close friend join me along the way kept me motivated and I did the final 10k with my daughter, which meant so much. Crossing the finish line was emotional and receiving my medal felt incredibly special. Maybe next year I’ll take on the 50k – watch this space!”

Together, our brilliant team of Thames Path walkers have raised an amazing £3, 810.00 with donations still coming in! A huge thank you to every one of you.

Fancy taking on a challenge for Momentum? Find out more