Most people would use their time off to take a well-earned break, which often involves a sun lounger and a swimming pool – but Journal Editor, Becky Brooks, will be swapping her office heels for walking boots as she takes on the challenge of a lifetime this September, trekking the Great Wall of China to raise funds for the RUH's new Cancer Centre on behalf of the Forever Friends Appeal.

Becky will be aiming to raise £3,100 for the cause, having originally been inspired by a press release sent to The Journal by the hospital. "I opened it up and just couldn't stop thinking about it and what an incredible experience it could be. It is, however, also quite terrifying and I will be going on my own with a group of strangers, but we will have one common goal – to raise money for this pioneering new Cancer Centre, which will have the potential to transform lives of cancer patients locally.

"I am reasonably fit, having run the Bath Half with my colleague last year – we enjoyed it so much that we have continued (when possible!) but I think this type of walking for hours on end and up very steep, uneven steps and various terrains for six days will certainly be a test. So, I will need to train and will be taking on the Walk of Life in May, which is also organised for the RUH's Cancer Care Campaign, which will cover 21 miles from Devizes to Bradford-on-Avon and then Bath. It'll be good practice!

"We will be staying in hostels whilst we are away and spending one night with a local family. I am reliably informed there is no heating, so for someone who feels the cold, it could be interesting!

"My short-term discomfort, however, will be absolutely nothing compared to the people I have met, some with a terminal diagnosis, that face cancer so bravely. I have been particularly inspired by Becci McCafferty, from Peasedown St John, who is fighting bowel cancer. Becci has an incredible attitude and such spirit and when her story became public, I spoke to her about the challenge, which, at that point, I was only considering. The camaraderie of local people never fails to amaze me and I am really hoping readers will all get behind me and donate something to this incredibly important cause.

"Becci is only thirty years old, the same age as me. Cancer does not discriminate, it can affect anyone, with a huge knock-on effect for families – both emotionally and financially. We have all been touched by cancer somehow and it forever alters people's lives.

"The RUH, like many local hospitals, is working with pre-fabricated buildings dating back from the 1940s, which were never meant to last, but are still standing. Much has been done to keep these building shells in good condition, but with demand never higher, these facilities drastically need to change.

"Like the new Neo-Natal Intensive Care Unit at the hospital, the new Cancer Centre would create a positive environment for holistic healing. It will be better lit, with a choice of waiting seating (currently there is limited seating and not enough consultation rooms). Inpatient rooms will be on the top floor and overlook the countryside, with specific provision for teenagers and young adults, and room for relatives to stay overnight. It will provide a flexible space for patients and doctors and it is hoped that, like the NICU, it will have a positive result on recovery for patients."

The new Centre will cost £20.5 million to build, with the Appeal now looking to raise £3 million extra, having reached its minimum target of £5 million, thanks to the James Dyson Foundation. Part of Becky's funds raised will cover the cost of the trek, with her paying for other costs.

"I think everyone at The Journal will be merrily waving me off when the day comes, as, when I am not up to my eyes in deadlines, I am driving them all mad, thinking about ways in which I can reach my fundraising target. It has become so important to me to try and raise this money and make a difference," said Becky.

Despite having earache, staff at The Journal are actually being incredibly supportive and will be helping Becky with the first of a series of monthly cake sales to help raise funds. The first will take place this Friday, 28th March, from 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. at Business West (Unit 22) on the Midsomer Enterprise Park. Everyone is welcome to come along and sample some of the wonderful cakes for sale. There will also be enough to take away for the weekend, too.

Other fundraising ideas include a quiz night at Mardons Social Club on Friday, 25th April, a charity night due in May, which will feature a raffle with prizes kindly donated by local businesses, a race night in August and more.

Readers can sponsor Becky via: http://www.justgiving.com/BeckysChinaTrek">www.justgiving.com/BeckysChinaTrek or by texting BBCT83 followed by the amount (it all adds up, large or small!) to 70070.