Fundraiser launched in memory of much-loved Chester mum-of-three

Karen Bowdler, 52, from Waverton, sadly died last year having bravely battled against breast cancer since 2017.

Ahead of the 12-month anniversary of her passing, her husband Jason and their children – Joe, Sam and Emma – have launched a fundraising challenge so they can install a bench for 'Kaz' and provide vital funding for Macmillan Cancer Support.

'Team Bowdler', with the support of loved ones, are planning to walk 477,712 miles – or 955,424,000 steps – which is the distance from Waverton to the moon and back again.

They started the challenge on Good Friday and have already raised more than £4,000 – double the amount needed for the bench and memorial plaque.

Now the aim is to raise as much money as possible for Macmillan, who not only provided crucial support for Kaz but also the whole family.

Speaking about the "To the moon and back for Kaz" challenge, her husband Jason said: "As we approach Kaz's first anniversary, as a family we wanted to raise money for Macmillan and a bench in her memory.

"Kaz was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2017 and fought bravely till she passed in 2020.

Karen Bowdler's husband Jason and their three children - Joe, Sam and Emma - have organised the fundraiser.

"The kids and I wanted to provide a bench in her memory so everyone can go and chat to Kaz. She is missed and remembered by many.

"Macmillan provided amazing care for Kaz as she neared the end of her battle and as a family we are very grateful to them.

"We have found a spot on the common land in Waverton overlooking the ‘dammy’ to install the bench and have had consent to start installation.

"We would love you all to be involved in our fundraising and so would like you to join us in walking to the moon and back for Kaz.

"We are suggesting a donation of £10 per person to get involved with our walk. Every day you send over your steps/miles and we will add them into our total.

"Of course it wouldn’t be a true Bowdler event without a bit of healthy competition – so there will be a prize for whoever walks the most individual steps and for the team who walks the most cumulative steps per week.

"We really hope you will join us in raising as much money as we can while enjoying the great outdoors as well. Once we have walked to the moon and back you can all take a well earned rest on Kaz’s bench."

• To make a donation visit the gofundme page . For more details and updates go to facebook.com/To-the-Moon-and-Back-for-Kaz-103071668552863/?ref=page_internal .