Terminally ill cancer patient Jacqui Maud Aster gave the thumbs up for the care she has received from Dorothy House as she hitchhiked along the Kennet and Avon Canal this week to raise funds for the hospice.

The 49-year-old was diagnosed with adrenocortical cancer nine years ago and, after much treatment, has chosen not to continue the therapy.

She lives on the canal on an 80-year-old wooden working barge and a fellow boater dubbed her Lady Aster, the name she changed to after her divorce.

Lady Aster set off from Newbury on Monday and hitchhiked along the Kennet and Avon, using as many boats as possible. Her journey ended on Saturday in Bathampton, where she has a permanent mooring.

Lady Aster, who has lived on various parts of the canal for 14 years, said: “Because of the cancer, I can’t cruise my own boat and I now have a permanent mooring. I miss moving around on the canal. I love the freedom, countryside, wildlife and community. The canal seems to attract very generous, caring people.”

A support boat led the challenge with several friends shaking buckets for donations and she encountered excellent hospitality from families, couples, friends, and the many pubs en route.

She said. “It has been wonderful and I have met some lovely people.

“The Barge at Honeystreet was great. We had a 13-hour day and didn’t arrive until 10.15pm and the kitchen was closed. The landlord bought us food and we sat outside.”

Lady Aster, who has a grown up son, first attended Dorothy House 18 months ago and has treatments and therapies at the Winsley hospice.

“Their support has been invaluable,” she said: “They have helped me apply for benefits and secure a permanent mooring.

“They have made a huge difference to my life, now when it matters.

“I have run out of treatment options that are acceptable for me. Quality of the life is the most important thing. I will have no more operations and no more being in a wheelchair. I want to enjoy life.

“The most important thing is Dorothy House has said when the time comes, they will provide 24 hour nursing care on my boat. I won’t have to leave my boat and the community I live in.”

Jenny Steele, communications manager at Dorothy House, said: “We are incredibly proud of Jacqui. She is an inspiration to everyone.”

To donate, visit: http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/LadyAster