Fundraising is on higher level

Rev’s commitment is above duty

Commitment is never in short supply at Strathcarron Hospice - but there’s one man who takes it to a whole different level.

Chaplain Stuart Murdoch pledged to run 1000 miles in aid of the hospice this year - including a recently completed 196-mile run of the hospice catchment area.

He also recently completed his third marathon in two days to add to his tally.

The ‘Chaplain’s Challenge’ has become a feature of fundraising at the hospice in recent years.

In 2015 Stuart covered 212 miles on foot in three days, trekking and running the Southern Upland Way the equivalent of three marathons a day for three days.

Last year he pledged to swim 11,000 lengths - the equivalent of over 170 miles or swimming the English Channel eight and a bit times.

Coleena Brodie of the hospice fundraising team said: “Stuart’s efforts on behalf of Strathcarron have been nothing short of amazing.

“Yet another example of a member of staff whose commitment goes way beyond that of any normal employee.

“We are incredibly proud of all our staff, but we have been especially proud recently of our turbo powered, bonkers, big hearted Chaplain.

Stuart said: “As Chaplain at Strathcarron Hospice, working with patients, families and staff, I am reminded on a daily basis why this amazing organisation is so vital to our community, making a real difference to the people of Forth Valley, Kilsyth and Cumbernauld who are living with life-limiting conditions.

“I also like to challenge myself on a personal level (as those who know me well can confirm), and you can rest assured that every penny of sponsorship will be well earned in blood, sweat and tears as I don’t do ‘easy,’ or even what most people would deem ‘possible’.

“As well as pledging to run 1000 miles in 2017, I have also signed up to run the Causeway Coast Marathon in Northern Ireland.

“The most bonkers part of my challenge is running the perimeter of the Strathcarron catchment area, taking in approximately 200 miles and no fewer than 10 mountains and a mind boggling 27,770 feet (that’s just 1258 feet short of Everest by the way).

“Donations, large or small, all make a difference and are much appreciated by me and by the hospice.”

/www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/Stuart-Murdoch5

Anyone inspired by Stuart’s effort and looking for a something to aim towards - albeit slightly gentler than what Stuart is putting himself through - can sign up for this year’s special 30th anniversary Strathcarron 10k, which takes place on October 15 at Stirling University.

There is also a 2.5k Family Fun Run on the day with entry just £5 entry per person.

Coleena said: “We are asking all of our runners for both the 10K and the Family Fun Run to ‘run to raise £30’ if at all possible, to help us continue providing our specialist palliative care services to people living with life-limiting conditions in our community.

“Whether you are new to running, fancy giving it a go, or just want a personal challenge you can enjoy with friends or family, sign up now at www.strathcarronhospice. net.”