A 35-day Camino de Santiago trek will raise funds for Carmarthenshire Urology Services
A ST DAVIDS couple are preparing to take on a gruelling 500-mile trek along the Camino de Santiago in aid of Carmarthenshire Urology Services at Hywel Dda University Health Board.
Jenny and Tim Kitchell will begin their 35-day walk on May 27, setting off from St Jean Pied de Port in the Basque country, and aim to reach the famous cathedral in Santiago de Compostela on June 30.
Jenny was diagnosed with bladder cancer in 2024 and has since been receiving treatment from the Urology team at Glangwili Hospital. She said the dedication and support she received from staff inspired her to take on the challenge.
“I have been treated by the staff of the Urology department based at Glangwili since my diagnosis,” she said. “I feel humbled by the sheer energy, expertise and kindness of everyone who has worked to make me better.
“The very least I can do in return is to try and raise money for the department to help with the astounding work they do.”
Jenny added that the pilgrimage holds special meaning, as the cathedral at Santiago de Compostela was dedicated as a pilgrimage site in 1122 – the same year as St Davids Cathedral, where she has worked for many years.
Fundraising Officer Claire Rumble praised the couple’s efforts, saying: “We are deeply moved by Jenny’s story and her wish to give something back after her cancer treatment.
“The support of our local communities enables us to provide services over and above what the NHS can provide in the three counties of Hywel Dda and we are extremely grateful for every donation we receive.”
Supporters can donate to Jenny and Tim’s fundraiser at:
https://www.justgiving.com/page/jenny-kitchell-1
More information about supporting local NHS patients and staff can be found at:
www.hywelddahealthcharities.org.uk
