A blind runner will be at the starting line for the Dandara 5k at Hazlehead Park on Saturday, September 29, 2018 with a guide runner, in aid of North East Sensory Services (NESS).
Bruce Cruickshank, 34, from Moray, lost his eyesight in 2010 through Type 1 diabetes and after taking up running last year, set himself the challenge of taking on the Dandara 5k to raise funds for NESS.
After seeking support from the charity in 2010, Bruce started volunteering for the Moray branch in 2012 before joining the organisation as part-time fundraising assistant in 2015.
“The support I receive from NESS is invaluable, even now as an employee. The team have been incredible, especially when my son Alfie was born in 2015 and knowing first-hand the brilliant work they do I knew I wanted to give back,” Bruce said.
NESS reaches more than 6,500 people in Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, Angus, Dundee and Moray who are living with a sight and/or hearing loss. The charity aims to support people who are blind and/or deaf to achieve independence and delivers personalised support to meet individual needs.
Despite an initial setback following a fractured foot last year, Bruce has been preparing for the annual event by running weekly with his local Jog Scotland group and attending regular spin classes. On the day, Bruce will run with Aberdeen-based brother-in-law Michael Sheard, 28, who will act as his aide.
Michael said: “Bruce has never let his loss of sight slow him down in life and I’m very proud to be running alongside him in the Dandara 5k. As an aide, it’ll be my job to guide Bruce along the track, advising him of any obstacles such as potholes and preparing him for any uphill or downhill terrain.”
Bruce is just one of the many runners already signed up for the athletic event, which features a pirate theme this year, with spaces still available in the 5k, 2k and 1k children’s races, and the 600m fun run.
Dandara’s sales director in Aberdeen, Peter Best, said: “The Dandara 5k raises money to support Friends of Hazlehead in rejuvenating Hazlehead Park in Aberdeen but we also encourage runners to sign up and fundraise for a charity close to their hearts.
“It’s fantastic to hear about the number of brilliant causes participants are choosing to raise money for and we look forward to welcoming attendees on September 29.”
Runners have until September 27, 2018 to sign up for the race online, and they can also sign up on the day of the event if they pay in cash at the registration area.
For more information and to register please visit www.friendsofhazlehead.co.uk.
Bruce Cruickshank training with a guide runner in Elgin