Maria Higginson, a Torquay-based teacher, has completed an incredible 100-mile ultramarathon, walking from Edinburgh Castle to Glamis Castle in under 40 hours on 25 and 26 July. She raised over £1,000 for Rowcroft Hospice in memory of her mum and the compassionate care she received at the end of her life.
Maria began walking regularly during lockdown and quickly became hooked, discovering a passion for walking in nature. Since then, she has completed 11 ultramarathon events, alongside many hours of training on foot. However, this latest challenge carried far deeper personal meaning.
“Before my mum, Margaret, passed away, she asked me to do some fundraising for Rowcroft,” said Maria. “I decided I wanted to do something big, so when I found a 100-mile walk through Scotland, I knew it was the right challenge.”
Maria dedicated the challenge to her mum, reflecting on the care and support her family received from Rowcroft.
“The Rowcroft team who supported my mum were amazing. She had a nurse who managed her care during the last 12 months of her life, and it was Rowcroft’s occupational therapist who ensured she received the regular support she needed to remain at home with her much-loved cat, Rupert. They were our lifeline and nothing was ever too much trouble.
“Their gift to us was helping her to live well and maintain her independence during her last 12 months. They helped her to continue living while she was dying.”
In the lead-up to the ultramarathon, Maria followed a rigorous training schedule alongside her full-time job as a teacher.
“The biggest challenge was juggling training alongside working full-time. It took real discipline to stick to my training plan. However, all the walking gave me time to reflect and heal after losing my mum.”
Maria shared the moments of joy and connection she found along the route.
“The best part was walking along the Firth coast path in the sunshine. I also loved the support I received from friends and family, who were messaging me throughout the weekend. Lots of people along the route took the time to cheer us on and support us as well.
“This was the biggest physical and mental challenge I have ever done. Every penny raised goes to Rowcroft, and they need every penny.”
You can support Maria’s incredible fundraising challenge by making a donation via her JustGiving page: www.justgiving.com/maria-higginson-ultramarathon
Every pound raised will help provide compassionate end-of-life care for patients and families across South Devon.
Or if you’re feeling inspired by Maria’s achievement, why not take on a challenge of your own? Whether it’s a walk, run, cycle or something completely your own, you can make a difference too. Find out how you can get involved by visiting Rowcroft Hospice’s website: www.rowcrofthospice.org.uk/challenges
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