Marske sisters prepare for Nepal charity trek in memory of their mum

For two Marske sisters, Mother’s Day this year will be all about remembering the woman who has inspired them to take on a challenge of a lifetime.

Hayley Hodgson and Rachael Watson were devastated when their mum, Olwen Stewart, passed away last year aged only 62.

Olwen, who was also mum to Melanie Stewart, 42, was rushed to hospital after collapsing but despite returning home she tragically died two weeks after taking ill as a result of heart disease.

Wanted to focus on something positive following their mother’s death, the pair decided to take part in a charity trek in Nepal this Novemeber to raise money for the Teesside Hospice.

Hayley, 30, who is mum to Riley, six, and Caoimhe, two, said: “I saw it as a challenge and something inspiring to do.

“I am just a busy mum and I needed something to spur me on.

“I am really excited for it and to do something together as sisters in our mother’s memory.”

Sisters Rachael Watson (left) and Hayley Hodgson who plan to take part in a charity trek through Nepal to raise money for Teesside Hospice in memory of their mum, Olwen Stewart

Rachael, 27, who is mum to Freddie, one, said: “Mum would probably think we were daft but she would think it was great that we are doing it for a good cause that she supported.

“Mum’s life was cut short so we want to make the most of ours.”

The pair have been training regularly in preparation for the 50 kilometre trek. During a 12 day period, the pair will travel the country of Nepal and experience temperatures between five and 25 degrees celsius. They will spend a total of five days trekking, experiencing altitudes up to 3,400 metres and they will spend two days volunteering at a local charity.

So far, with money still to be added to their funds, Hayley and Rachael have raised about £2,000 between them. However, they need to raise at least £3,300 each in sponsorship ahead of the charity trek.

As well as holding sponsored walks, the sisters have gone back to basics with their everyday spending in an attempt to try and reach their sponsorship pledge.

They are also planning to hold a sponsored walk to Whitby and another at Scafell Pike in the Lake District.

To help Hayley and Rachael with their fundraising goal, visit http://bit.ly/1BtLNh8 or http://bit.ly/1BtLL8Y.