Rugby derby raises £4000
An incredible £4000 was raised at a Lanarkshire derby match in aid of a youngster suffering from paralysing epileptic seizures.
Around 500 people turned out for the festive derby friendly between East Kilbride and Strathaven Rugby Clubs on Saturday, December 22 – and dug deep for the Save Cole Thomson campaign.
The hard-fought match at Strathaven’s Whiteshawgate ground ended 39-21 to East Kilbride and, after the game, there was a whole host of fun activities for families to enjoy.
Strathaven Rugby Club manager Craig Ferguson and EK boss Allan Steel, who are friends of Cole’s family, were keen to do their bit for the campaign.
Craig said: “The day went really The rugby club was jam-packed.
“The raffle prizes were fantastic and well. there was a great atmosphere. It was good to see two local teams come together for this great cause.
“We could not have asked for a better day, and people were so generous.”
All funds raised will go directly to the campaign to find a cannabis-based cure for six-year-old East Kilbride youngster Cole as his family continue their fight to access the drug to treat his paralysing epileptic seizures.
A total of £10,000 has been raised locally to help campaign group Parents of Hope access medical cannabis in this country.
Cole’s mum Lisa Quarrell said: “What an amazing day and what a way to finish our fundraising for 2018. When I started this in November I had absolutely no idea I would have so much support around me and my boys.
“A massive thank you from the bottom of my heart.
“There was standing room only in Strathaven Rugby Club and just over £4000 was raised.
“I’m absolutely amazed by everyone’s support and generosity – especially three days before Christmas.
“I’d like to thank Craig, Allan and Elaine for organising the full day and for all the other people who helped make it a complete success.”
Lisa added: “I’m truly devastated I don’t have medical cannabis for Cole yet but I am so humbled by all the support we have had and will continue to fight harder and louder in 2019.
“Thank you to everyone who’s supported my campaign for my son I really appreciate everything you have done for our family. Please continue to support our fight.”