Sharon’s fundraiser
Raising cash for ramblers’ group
A West Lothian woman suffering from muscular dystrophy took part in this year’s Kiltwalk for charity.
Sharon Halliday ( 53) from Whitburn, raised funds for her disabled ramblers’ association on Sunday (August 19) by entering the Dundee Kiltwalk.
As Sharon has severe walking difficulties due to her condition, she covered the course by driving a TGA Breeze mobility scooter whilst collecting donations for The Forth and Tay Disabled Ramblers which organises accessible rambles for mobility scooter users.
Sharon has been a member of the Forth and Tay Disabled Ramblers for two years and the groups trips to places such as Glamis Castle, the Falkirk Wheel and the Kelpies has made a significant difference to her life.
Sharon said: “Before my mobility became so restricted I was surrounded by people at work every day which I always enjoyed.
“However, as my condition has developed, especially after breaking my leg badly, I’ve had to take early retirement from public sector work and now tutor maths from home.
“I find my work with students really rewarding, however, this means I spend a lot of time on my own.
“Going out with the ramblers is a vital social experience for me and something I can go and do independently without having to rely on friends or family for help.
“My rambling group own around 30 mobility scooters which we can borrow, I always chosen a TGA Breeze as it is stable and comfort off-road.
“By being on a scooter I can be ‘Sharon’ again and hope by raising funds and awareness on the Kiltwalk, other people in a similar situation can benefit from joining our rambling group.”
Sharon added that losing your independence can cause serious problems for people but going rambling can improve things significantly.
She added: “It’s only when you lose your independence that you fully appreciate how important it is.
“Being stuck in the house and not seeing people can get you down, whereas getting outdoors and being involved in a group activity is so rewarding.
“When you cannot do things on your own it is very frustrating – when I’m on a ramble I feel independent and free.”
Speaking ahead of the event, Sharon said: “We are really looking forward to the Kiltwalk as we have our tartan Tutus at the ready.
“Please donate to my Kiltwalk page so my rambling group can continue to help more disabled people enjoy the great outdoors, together.”
The Dundee Kiltwalk offers three routes of varying length so that people with different abilities can enter.
Alongside other disabled members and able- bodied volunteers from her rambling association, Sharon entered the seven-mile ‘Wee Wander’ starting from TRB Urban Arts Space, Dundee Waterfront, and concluding at Blue Sea Playground Marine Drive, Monifieth.
To donate to Sharon’s cause visit https://dundeekiltwalk2018.everydayhero.com/uk/sharon-11