Golf event raises thousands for CHAS
More than £10K was raised for the children’s charity
Hamilton Golf Club has raised thousands for a children’s charity in memory of a Hamilton youngster who passed away in 2013.
Paul Creaney was born in February 2000 and at six weeks old was diagnosed with alobar holoprosencephaly, meaning that the brain cannot control any functions of the body.
His parents, Denise and Matt, were told that he would not survive past six months but after spending most of his first year in hospital, Paul went on to grow into a happy, always smiling boy.
Despite the numerous operations throughout his life, everyone knew Paul by his infectious smile.
Denise, Matt and his big sister Emma were regular visitors to children’s hospice Rachel House where they found they had a chance to relax, recharge their batteries and have fun with Paul.
Paul, however, unexpectedly passed away on May 2, 2013, and Rachel House were there to help the family get through the first tough weeks and were still there afterward with their continued support.
Now in its fourth year, the friends of Paul’s family who organise the annual event, have worked tirelessly to make this their most successful golf day yet.
To date, over £29,000 has been raised from the event in memory of Paul. This year alone they raised £10,091 for the Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS).
Samantha Reilly, community fundraiser for CHAS, said: “Every year I am blown away by the support we receive from this event.
“To raise over £10,000 is something to be very proud of and I am so thankful to everyone who continues to show their commitment to raising as much money as possible.
“This is a big year for CHAS. There are 15,400 children and young people in Scotland with a life-shortening condition and we are determined to be there for all of those children and their families.
“Every penny raised will help us make sure that no matter how short the time they have together may be, it is filled with joy and happiness.
“At CHAS, we would like to thank Stewart and Michelle Henderson, Tom Ryan who ran the London Marathon in aid of this event, the family and friends of Paul for their continued support and especially Hamilton Golf Club who give up the course for the day and without their help this event would not be possible.”
CHAS is the only charity in Scotland that provides hospice services for babies, children and young people with life-shortening conditions.