A Therapeutic Radiographer from Northern Ireland has been selected to join CoppaFeel’s Great Wall of China CoppaTrek!.
CoppaFeel is a youth-focused breast cancer awareness charity that aims to eradicate late detection of breast cancer by encouraging people aged 18-24 to check their chests. Twice a year, CoppaFeel runs five-day treks across the world to raise money for its mission and raise awareness of breast cancer, led by ambassador and patron Giovanna Fletcher.
Mum-of-three Norma Higgins was surprised to be chosen for the 2026 trek across the Great Wall of China - which will take place on 5-13 September - since the selection process is very competitive.
“Being chosen is not just a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity; it is a recognition of personal dedication and the potential to make a real impact in raising awareness of breast cancer,” she said.
A personal journey
In her role as a Therapeutic Radiographer at the Northern Ireland Cancer Centre, Norma has seen firsthand how early detection can make all the difference when it comes to cancer treatment. But joining CoppaTrek! also comes from a personal place for Norma, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2019.
“Treatment involved chemotherapy, three surgeries, radiotherapy and Herceptin, all during Covid, a time that felt isolating and uncertain,” she explained. “It’s taken years for my body to feel like my own again and this trek feels like a celebration of that and a way to push myself, to show how far I’ve come and to make my children proud.”
The trip will be challenging - Norma will be walking for up to seven hours each day across five days, covering just over 40km overall. Add in the Great Wall of China’s 10,000 uneven steps and this trek will be no mean feat.
Physical and emotional challenge
Norma is honoured to have been chosen for the trek, and is proud to represent a number of different groups during the challenge.
“I feel so privileged to have been selected for the CoppaTrek! Great Wall of China 2026,” said Norma. “It’s going to be challenging, both physically and emotionally, but it feels incredibly meaningful.
“Being part of the therapeutic radiography profession and the Northern Ireland Cancer Centre team, I’ve seen the importance of early detection from both sides, as a healthcare professional and as a patient.
“I’m proud to be representing Northern Ireland and to be supporting CoppaFeel! in spreading a message that truly saves lives. I’m excited, grateful and ready to take on this adventure for such a vital cause.”
To show your support for Norma and the CoppaFeel cause, check out Norma’s JustGiving page here.
(Image: Norma Higgins)