Olivia Newton-John

This has been an amazing first stage. Thank you everyone for your support and keep coming back for regular updates.

What an amazing experience this is! I arrived in Beijing only days ago to meet my team – my fellow walkers. At the beginning of the walk, we stood at the first part of the Wall amongst dancing local women with colourful scarves and a band, as I cut a ribbon and asked the walkers to hold hands and sing a song [Magic] to bond us all together. I felt such a feeling of excitement, almost disbelief that we were finally actually here. The first day was the most strenuous start – 18 kms almost vertical – or so it seemed – it was a wonderful way to bond with everyone as we struggled to reach the next tower. There is no way to describe the feeling of seeing the Wall for the first time. It is stirring and beautiful and a great challenge. But I had decided before I began that I would just face one step at a time – like a cancer journey – there may be trepidation before you start out, but one step at a time – you walk the journey of the Wall and you feel very exhilarated when you make it. Everyone here has the same goal and I am so grateful they are helping me raise awareness and money, with your help, for the ONJ Cancer and Wellness Centre Appeal. I feel I have already made some wonderful new friends and more to join us! The adventure continues.

The Chinese believe Dragon’s Head is a special place, a place to remember those who have gone before us. Olivia asked everyone to face the sea before leading a very moving ceremony. “Let us all say a prayer for people we have loved and lost, particularly those with cancer in our lives or who are going through the cancer journey … let’s stick with the tradition and wish all those people a good trip”.

“I’m sure we all have people in our hearts that we are walking for”