Maria Lambert-Carter

The Grand Challenge: In Memory of Julie & In Gratitude

In April and May 2026, I am taking on two major challenges—The Marsden March and Swim The Night—to celebrate the life of my wonderful colleague, Julie Smith. We sadly lost Julie earlier this year, and her absence has left a huge hole in our lives - she is missed every single day.

This mission is also deeply personal to me. The Royal Marsden has supported me through my own cancer journey, providing the world-class care and expertise that I am so grateful for today. I know firsthand the incredible work they do, and I want to ensure that every patient receives that same hope and dedication.

By walking 15 miles across London and swimming a mile every hour for 24 as part of a team, I’m raising vital funds to help The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity stay at the forefront of research. I’m doing this to thank them for my own recovery and to honour Julie’s memory. Whether it’s miles on foot or laps in the pool, every donation helps me give back to the place that has given me so much.

Thank you for your support—it truly means the world.

Maria x

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My updates

Swimming more

Thursday 16th Apr

A wise swimming friend told me that swimming twice in a day would be the way to build on my training, so for the last couple of weeks I have been trying to do that.

A few laps in the lido in the cold water and then longer distance indoors - note ideal as the water is far too warm!

Distance in the pool

Sunday 29th Mar

Building up distance in the pool is hard work especially when you are working full time. Luckily the pool at the gym is never very busy so in the last month have managed to rack up a few miles.

Swim the night is one mile every hour for 24 hours - we have 4 in our team so a total of 6 miles for me. Luckily it is not in one go!

It is now the school holidays so I am hoping to get a few more miles training in!

Walking training also incoming!!

Thank you to my Sponsors

£15

Sarah Hutchinson

Thank you Maria, you have inspired me to be more positive about my own cancer recovery. Fundraising in memory of dear Julie is wonderful. Good luck.

£20

Olivia Stephens

Good luck Maria! Brilliant cause - also helped my Dad

£50

Alison Wright

Enjoy every moment of your fundraising journey!

£20

Rebecca Jorgensen

Wishing you the best of luck with this—such a great cause!

£10

Charlotte Francis

Good luck Maria - two great challenges for a n incredible cause!

£100

Jason Carter

Good luck xx

£250

Mark Tierney

They helped my father as well. Good luck my lovely!! 😊

£20

Janine Cowdery

You have got this!

£35

Sally

Amazing. All power to you. X

£10

Jane Stout

£10

Rebecca Philips

Good luck!

£10