Will’s Great Wall of China trek raises over £11,750 to thank Alder Hey for saving his life

We’re incredibly proud to share the inspiring story of 21-year-old fundraiser, Will Blisset, who recently took on an unforgettable challenge — trekking the Great Wall of China to raise funds for Alder Hey Children’s Charity, the hospital that saved his life.

When Will was just 14, he was involved in a serious road accident in Andreas on the Isle of Man and was airlifted to Alder Hey for urgent treatment to multiple fractures in his face and head. He spent four months in our care, receiving life-saving treatment and vital rehabilitation support to help him walk again.

Reflecting on that time, Will said: “I arrived at Alder Hey needing a miracle to have a chance at life — and the staff there gave me that. They saved me.”

Years later, while on a psychology degree placement at Alder Hey, Will saw a poster promoting our Great Wall of China Trek and knew it was the perfect way to give back.

Taking on the 21-mile (35km) trek proved to be “another level of challenging”. Despite tough, hot, and humid conditions — and a spell of heat stroke that prevented him from completing the final section — Will described the experience as “unbelievable and so rewarding. Every step of the challenge demanded total focus — the steep slopes were beyond belief — but the views and the people made it all worthwhile,” he shared.

Through coffee mornings, quizzes, and months of preparation, Will raised more than £11,750 to help support Alder Hey’s life-saving work.

Although he still faces some challenges today, Will has made an incredible recovery. “Thanks to Alder Hey, I’m fully mobile again and have all my cognitive function. My memory might not be my strongest point anymore, but I’m just grateful to be here and to be able to give back.”

Will’s determination, courage, and gratitude embody the spirit of our amazing Alder Hey fundraisers. His story is a powerful reminder of how every step, every donation, and every challenge helps us continue delivering world-class care to children and families who need us most. “This was my way to say thank you,” Will said. “The whole experience has been once in a lifetime — and then some.”