Couple scale dizzy heights for charity
Hikers raise money in memory of grandmother
A big-hearted Larkhall couple have raised over £1000 for charity.
Colin Murray and his partner, Paula Mccabe, decided to climb Ben Nevis in September 2016 to raise funds for Marie Curie in memory of Colin’s grandmother, Helen.
Helen was cared for by Marie Curie nurses towards the end of her life, after she was diagnosed with cancer of the oesophagus four years previously.
Colin, an avid hill-walker, was surprised at the number of people climbing Ben Nevis in memory of someone they had lost or in support for Marie Curie nurses.
During the three-hour ascent, Colin noted “people of all shapes and sizes” were heading towards the summit.
Reaching the top of Ben Nevis was such an achievement for Colin and Paula, and a lovely way to commemorate the life of his grandmother.
Colin and Paula managed to raise more than £1000 through sponsorship donations.
After Helen’s diagnosis in 2008, aged 84, she received treatment at Wishaw General Hospital.
However by 2012, Helen’s condition had deteriorated and she left hospital to remain at home.
During the last four weeks of her life, Marie Curie nurses stepped in to offer care and support to Helen and her family.
Colin recalled how much his grandmother enjoyed the social aspect to the nurses’ visits and that “she always loved her chats with the nurses”.
Marie Curie nurses came to visit Helen on the day that she passed away.
Colin and his family were not at home, however, the Marie Curie nurse phoned Colin’s mother to advise that they return as soon as possible as Helen’s condition was deteriorating quickly.
Thanks to that Marie Curie nurse, Colin and his family were able to be with his grandmother as she passed away.
Colin and his family thank Marie Curie for all that they did for his grandmother during the final weeks of her life.
Georgia Ramplin, Community Fundraiser for Marie Curie, said: “Taking on a physical challenge is such a brilliant way to fundraise for Marie Curie.
“The sense of achievement is really wonderful”.
If you are interested in getting involved with Marie Curie fundraising, then do contact Georgia on 07730 619 485. To find out more information about Marie Curie treks and challenges, please visit www.mariecurie.org.uk/ get-involved/charity-events