A Harrogate mum is preparing to trek 100 kilometres across the Sahara Desert to raise money and awareness for breast cancer charity CoppaFeel!
Emma Brown, 38, who works as a Clinical Team Manager in Community Mental Health Services for the NHS, will take on the challenge next month.
The five-day trek will see her face soaring daytime temperatures and vast sand dunes as part of a fundraising expedition with others supporting the charity.
Emma was inspired to take on the challenge after her mum was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer in 2022 — an experience that she says had a profound impact on her family.
Emma, who is mum to a young son, Arthur, said:
“I’m walking this walk for my mum, grandma, uncle and all the people in my family whose lives have been stolen by cancer.
“Not to forget all those who are currently receiving treatment. Every step is for a great cause, and every donation makes a difference.”
CoppaFeel! is the UK’s only youth-focused breast cancer awareness charity, encouraging young people to check their chests regularly and learn the signs and symptoms of breast cancer.

The charity aims to promote early detection, which can significantly improve treatment outcomes and survival rates.
Emma said she’s feeling “nervous but very excited” ahead of what she calls an “adventure of a lifetime.”
She added that she’s been “overwhelmed” by the support from friends, colleagues, and the Harrogate community:
“By doing this, I hope to raise much-needed funds and awareness for CoppaFeel!, who do such incredible work encouraging early detection and empowering people to advocate for their health."
At the time of publication, Emma has raised £3,175 towards her £3,500 fundraising target. Donations can be made through her JustGiving page here.

Lightwater Valley reveals reopening date
Harrogate teachers brave blizzard conditions in latest running challenge
Conservative councillors take swipes at Reform amid budget talks
Date revealed for Knaresborough Tractor Run
Yorkshire Air Ambulance appoints new CEO
Council to increase council tax by maximum after £43m "wallop" from government
Harrogate dad takes on 40,000-mile yacht race for bereavement charity
Harrogate BID backs return of town's popular Restaurant Week
Cost of Harrogate garden bin licence revealed
Spirit of Harrogate to enter administration
Call for council to support pubs and hospitality businesses
Ripon MP says Kex Gill realignment scheme is making 'good progress'
Northern Powergrid issue update on Leeds Road traffic lights
Sir Stephen Fry sends mental health message to Harrogate College students
Harrogate Cat Rescue appeals for urgent support as vet bills soar
Cuts may be needed to balance budget at North Yorkshire Police
Harrogate BID unveils full programme for town's Self Care Week
Pateley hit-and-run: Man charged with two further offences
Opinions sought on new specialist autism school in Harrogate
Harrogate MP sparks Parliamentary debate on water bosses flouting bonus ban


