Mum up for award

A Hamilton mum has been recognised for keeping her daughter’s memory alive almost two years after her death.

Elaine Mchugh has been fundraising in memory of her daughter Eilidh, who sadly passed away in March 2017 after a short battle with cancer.

Eilidh was aged just 22 when she died, and was only months away from securing her dream job as a pharmacist.

The community was rocked by the news of her death, and shortly after that, events such as fun days, charity runs and other fundraisers were set up in her memory.

Just three months after Eilidh’s death, her friends and family had raised over £7000 in her name and ‘Team Eilidh’ was created.

Elaine – alongside her eldest daughter Kerry – has been a driving force behind a lot of the fundraisers.

And two years later, Eilidh’s Fund is sitting at £206,095.

Elaine said: “I couldn’t bear the thought of all of us feeling this sadness for the rest of our lives. I couldn’t bear the thought of Eilidh’s life being for nothing, so that’s what compels us to keep going and continue fundraising.

“The strength you feel through the power of giving back is amazing. Never underestimate the power of giving, whether it’s through your time, your kindness or your talent.”

The mum of two has been nominated in the ‘Amazing Charitable Contribution’ category at No.1 magazine’s upcoming Amazing Women Awards category and will attend the ceremony next month on the second anniversary of Eilidh’s passing.

Eilidh’s sister Kerry announced online that her mum was up for the award. She said: “My superstar mum has been nominated for a No1 Amazing Women Award in the Amazing Charitable Contribution category.

“We couldn’t be prouder of you mum for everything you do to put Team Eilidh on the map. Massive thanks to Dawn Ferguson for this special nomination.”

Family friend Dawn put Elaine forward for the award last year, and said: “I met Elaine during devastating circumstances when I worked at Beatson Cancer Charity and, despite moving on from the charity, she has become a friend and someone who I wholeheartedly admire.

“Elaine embodies everything about being an inspirational woman; she is strong, determined and not easily fazed. I am so pleased that she was shortlisted and I know she is representing Team Eilidh at the awards, however I really believe she deserves recognition for taking her family’s tragedy and using it to help others.”

Elaine said that she was truly humbled to be nominated for the award. She said: “Thank you everyone for your very kind words, I am honoured and humbled to be nominated.

“Kerry and I will attend the Amazing Women Awards on March 7, which is Eilidh’s second anniversary. It will be an honour and a privilege to represent everyone in Team Eilidh. Thank you!

“Team Eilidh demonstrates kindness and compassion, walking by our side. We hope you will continue to support us in raising funds for Eilidh’s Beatson Tribute fund in memory of a precious daughter and sister.”

Team Eilidh have a really busy year ahead with Eilidh’s concert arranged for March 15 in the Bothwell Bridge Hotel.

In April they are taking part in The Glasgow Kilt Walk and this year Team Eilidh is sponsored by Retronix.

And Elaine also confirmed that Eilidh’s Ladies’ Lunch will go ahead in September to mark her 25th birthday.

The second No.1 magazine Amazing Women Awards will be held at the Old Fruitmarket Glasgow on Thursday, March 7.