Kind Kiltwalker put his holiday on hold
HE went the extra mile — or 128 to be precise — last year, completing three Kiltwalks and setting his own charity challenge of scaling a mountain 10 times.
And it turned out to be perfect training for Cameron Mackintosh when he landed in the Philippines on the first day of his holiday — to the news a typhoon had struck.
Abandoning his plans to sightsee and soak up the sun, kind-hearted Cameron volunteered to help families in the worst off areas.
He carried 50kg bags of rice on his head, from the aid agency trucks to the centre where they were split into rations and handed out to people who’d lost everything.
Cameron, 44, from Moray, insists his 2013 Kiltwalk training held him in good stead for the unexpected challenge.
As well as taking part in three 26-mile Kiltwalks, he also set himself a personal mission of scaling Moray’s 800m-high Ben Rinnes 10 times in 24 hours to raise almost £5000 for the charity. And this week, he’s off to the Philippines to help again.
It’s now three months on from the tragedy but thousands are still missing — and many more are struggling with no running
water or electricity.
Earlier this month, Cameron flew out to Tacloban City where he’ll spend three weeks volunteering with Kaya Responsible Travel clearing the debris from collapsed buildings and offering counselling to troubled families.
And he’s hoping this time the physical work will kick-start his Kiltwalk training for the events in 2014.
Cameron has already signed up for Glasgow and Speyside — and he’s currently planning a second personal challenge too.
“I suppor t the Kiltwalk because I want to help Scottish children in need — and this trip will allow me to help those in need further afield too,” Cameron said.
“When I left the Philippines I vowed to return because, having seen the devastation first hand, I knew it would take years to heal.
“It’s a slow process — but the more hands on deck, the quicker it will happen.
“There’s no doubt it will be hard work, but hopefully it will help me build up my strength and stamina for the Kiltwalks in 2014.
“I imagine there will be emotional moments, but lots of laughter and smiles too.
“I’m going with a suitcase laden with toiletries, clothing and shortbread, so hopefully in the midst of the sadness I can bring some Scottish cheer.
“It’s nice to help others. I just do what I can.”