George, 70, heads for the hills in charity campaign
A 70-YEAR- OLD carer is planning a night hike up Ben Nevis next month to raise funds for the Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Society.
George Houston will be taking on the challenge overnight from August 26 to 27 to raise funds for the charity that supports him and his partner Barbara who has MS.
George is aiming to raise at least £1,200 for research into the condition and support for people affected by MS.
Barbara’s daughter also has MS, as do three members of George’s extended family, including a 15-year- old girl, who has recently had the diagnosis confirmed.
Barbara and George have lived together for 18 years, during which her MS has progressed.
George, who recently turned 70, said: ‘Training for the challenge is going well so far.
‘I have climbed Ben Lora three times in succession in daylight, which is a greater distance and almost the same amount of climbing as Ben Nevis. It will be more of a challenge at night with a head torch.
‘I am most grateful for all the donations that have been generously received from relatives, friends and residents of Seil, Oban, the USA and others.’
Speaking about his partner, he added: ‘Barbara was an active, talkative person and we did much together, including being involved with the local Riding for the Disabled Carriage Driving Group from its start.
‘After getting pneumonia in 2009, Barbara is now confined to a wheelchair or bed and has to communicate letter by letter using eye blinks.
‘All the money raised from the Ben Nevis night hike will be going to the MS Society – the leading UK charity for people with MS.’
There are more than 11,000 people living with MS in Scotland and more than 100,000 people living with MS in the UK. MS is an unpredictable condition that strikes without warning – one day you can be fine, the next you might lose your sight or be unable to move. People typically start experiencing symptoms in their 20s or 30s. These can include sight loss, pain, fatigue, incontinence and disability.
You can sponsor George’s effort at www.justgiving.com/ George-Houston. You can find out more information about MS or the MS Society on its website, and there is also a free helpline on 08088 008000.