Firefighter steps up in memory of Brian
A firefighter is taking on the height of Ben Nevis in full kit in memory of Oban’s Brian MacDonald, who lost his battle with motor neurone disease last year.
Crew commander Grant Carnachan will commit to the challenge on a gym step machine wearing breathing apparatus on his back this year.
He had planned to start his challenge on December 28 but toughened Covid restrictions meant it had to be postponed.
The 37-year-old from Paisley hopes his New Year mission will raise as much money as possible to be split between The Fire Fighters Charity and MND Scotland in Brian’s memory.
Retired firefighter Brian MacDonald was just 43 when he passed away in July 2020.
Grant said: ‘It’s been a hard year for everyone, more so for charities and Brian’s family.
‘So I wanted to do my bit and show that we are still thinking of him, that he is still making a difference and that his memory lives on.
‘I had wanted to do a climb but with everything going on I have not been able to.
So Prolife Gym has kindly allowed me to use their step climber.
‘I plan to climb 10,000 steps in my full fire fighting kit and with a BA set on my back.
‘Just to put that into perspective, that is higher than Ben Nevis, which is roughly 9,000 steps.
‘I know it’s been tough for everyone recently and people might not have a lot of money but every penny makes a difference.
‘Brian was a great guy and the charities helped him a lot. I wanted to do something to raise awareness and give back.’
Brian’s brother John said: ‘Brian would be so happy knowing that others are still raising money on his behalf for MND. Grant is doing him proud.
‘It’s an awful disease. As Brian’s family, we are overwhelmed by people’s kindness and generosity at this time.’
To make a donation go to https://uk.virginmoneygiving. com/GrantCarnachan