Kerry Wilkinson, 44, of Galloway Close, Maryport, had a double mastectomy after being diagnosed with breast cancer last year.
She also suffered post-traumatic stress disorder and depression following the diagnosis and treatment.
She said: “I could not have done without the breast care staff or the counsellors at the West Cumberland Hospital in Whitehaven.
“They have been fantastic and as soon as I felt myself again I wanted to give something back.”
Kerry, a former publican at both the Crown in Senhouse Street, now Thomas Henry, and the Top Tap, decided to hold a sponsored 20k walk from Grasslot Welfare Club to Asda and back.
“I put something on Facebook thinking I might get about 20 people to join me and now have over 80. It has been overwhelming, she said.
She had said that if 20 people raised £100 each, she could donate £2,000 to the hospital.
But she added: “I think I already have £500 myself so I really don’t know how much we will raise now. I am so grateful.”
She has had another huge boost from her cousin, Alex Dockray, who works for transport and courier company TNT.
The company is raffling a night shift off with full pay to raise money for the cause.
Kerry and friends will begin their walk at 10am on September 17.
To donate, visit or call 07926410142.
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