Walkers say big thank you with charity funds
A pair of Perthshire pensioners raised a phenomenal £7300 by walking more than eight miles in the Virtual Kiltwalk.
Valerie Wares (80) and Leana Cleland (82), who both have macular degeneration causing severe sight loss, recently pulled on their walking shoes to support local charity VisionPK.
They were joined on the walk by friend Louis Flood, who became partially sighted after having a stroke five years ago. All three are clients, as well as volunteers, with VisionPK.
With the Kiltwalk going virtual due to COVID-19 restrictions, they walked over eight miles in Scone, including a wander round the grounds of Scone Palace.
The group said:“We are delighted to have raised £7300 to support the work of VisionPK, helping people with sensory impairments in Perth and Kinross.
“It’s a charity close to all our hearts as it has made such a difference to our lives since we began to lose our sight. We’d like to thank everyone who supported us.”
Vision PK’s fundraising manager, Katie Wylie, said:“I am beyond thrilled by the success of our Virtual Kiltwalkers and the incredible amount they’ve raised for VisionPK.
“The Kiltwalk is a fantastic Scottish fundraising event that everyone can get involved with.
“With all funds raised being topped up by 50 per cent from the generosity of the Hunter Foundation, it makes a huge difference to charities across the country.
“I’d also encourage anyone who is thinking of holding a fundraising event for
VisionPK to go for it. It’s a great way to have some fun whilst raising money for a local cause.”
Katie added:“One in six people in Scotland are deaf or have some sort of hearing loss while the number of people who are blind or partially sighted is set to double in the next 20 years.
“Sensory loss will likely affect all of us at some point in our lives and that is why we want as many people as possible to sign up to fundraise for us – so we can be here for people who need us now and in the future.”
VisionPK provide support, information and advice to those with a sensory impairment across Perth and Kinross.
For further information, call 01738 626969 or email info@visionpk.org.uk