Fundraiser Heather goes the distance
Teenager surpasses mileage and her cash total
A Strath teenager who donned her walking boots during lockdown has covered over 500 kilometres, raising more than £1500 for two good causes.
Heather Keron from Madderty was at a loose end so decided to set herself a 500km for £500 challenge.
And the 15-year-old Morrison’s Academy pupil, who finished her last walk on Tuesday accompanied by friends, ended up covering a total of 526km and raising three times her initial target.
Heather, who began reeling in the distance on July 1, said: “I was recently inspired by my Auntie Katie who took part in the Dundee Virtual Kiltwalk, walking miles with friends and raising a massive £17,000 for charities that were important to them.
“With a bit more time on my hands over the summer with activities and holidays all cancelled I decided to set myself a challenge - to walk 500km over six weeks and raise some money for charities that mattered to me.
“Walking is such a great way to get out and explore the countryside, keeping your mind and body fit at the same time and it’s even better when you do it with friends or family.”
Heather is splitting the money raised between two worthy causes.
The fifth-year pupil continued: “It was easy to choose two charities to support. I am a rugby fan and have much admiration for Doddie Weir - battling against MND while working hard to help and inspire others touched by this terrible disease.
“In addition to this my school, Morrison’s Academy, supports some vital projects in Malawi - the Likhubula Library and Nursery School. It is so important not to forget those who are less fortunate than we are especially now due to the pandemic.”
Heather said she was slightly apprehensive at the start that she would not meet her £500 fundraising target, but within 24 hours of launching a crowdfunding page she had exceeded her goal.
She is now hopeful that she might raise closer to £ 2000, and added that the encouraging comments of donors and the support of family and friends walking with her had kept her going - and the fact the weather was so good also helped!
Walking is such a great way to get out and explore the countryside, keeping your body and mind fit at the same time and it’s even better when you do it with friends or family Heather Keron