Young Comrie campaigner takes health message to Holyrood

Finlay Taylor is a health champion with a difference – he is only 10-years-old.

He does not let his tender age hinder his work to raise the profile of the signs and symptoms of stroke after his mother fell ill three years ago.

The Comrie schoolboy has taken his message to the Scottish Parliament through a meeting with presiding officer Ken Macintosh.

He said: “When Mum had her stroke, I didn’t understand what had happened and that’s why I now want to make sure everyone knows about stroke and how to recognise the signs.

“I’ve done talks at school and I want to do more, so it was great to be chosen to go to parliament. It was really exciting to be there and meet the presiding officer.”

As part of the Year of the Young People, Mr Macintosh asked inspiring children to share experiences and challenges they have faced.

He chose Finlay as one of the eight youngsters he wanted to meet due to the care he has given to his mother and his passion for raising awareness of Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland’s FAST Campaign, designed to help people recognise the signs of a stroke.

Jane-Claire Judson, chief executive Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland, said: “Finlay is amazing. He and his mum are inspirational. Finlay is our youngest ambassador for FAST and we are proud to support him.

“We are delighted he was invited to meet with the presiding officer and have his voice heard.

“With more than 9,000 people in Scotland having a stroke every year, it is essential people can spot a stroke when it’s happening and take action.”