A 41-year-old woman from Aberdeen has vowed to take on the Kiltwalk, raising money for specialist charity Spina Bifida Hydrocephalus Scotland (SBH Scotland), which provides support to her young nephew.
Lisa Fowlie, from Balmedie, will be taking on the 26-mile Mighty Stride on June 2, with her family and friends in honour of her eight-year-old nephew Irving, who was born with spina bifida.
Setting off from Potarch, they will be joined by thousands of hardy walkers, venturing through the stunning Aberdeenshire countryside towards the City Centre, finishing up in Duthie Park.
Lisa said: “Irving is an inspiration to our family. He doesn’t let his condition hold him back in any way, he’s a typical young boy who wants to be in the thick of everything.
“As well as playing rugby with his older brother, he has recently taken up horse-riding. He has a custom-made saddle to give him extra support which has really boosted his confidence. I can’t think of any challenge too big for Irving and seeing his determination has inspired me to take on this year’s Kiltwalk.”
Although Irving now lives in Orkney, he attends meet-ups with SBH Scotland support workers in Aberdeen where possible, where he’s able to meet with other children, young people and their families, who also live with the life-long conditions.
In Aberdeen city and shire, more than 250 people rely on SBH Scotland’s services, which include weekly support groups, home visits by dedicated support workers, financial advice, a helpline and, this year, a specialist family conference.
Lisa previously signed up to take part in the Aberdeen Tower Abseil earlier this year, but due to weather conditions, the challenge was halted before she had a chance to participate. Along with her family and friends, she has raised over £1,900 for the charity so far.
Deborah Roe, fundraising director at SBH Scotland said: “SBH Scotland are pleased that we can support children like Irving to live life to the fullest. It’s wonderful to hear that he has inspired his family to get involved in this challenge.
“Taking part in the Kiltwalk is no easy feat, so we’re very thankful to Lisa and her family for pulling on their walking boots and supporting us.”
Paul Cooney, CEO at Kiltwalk said: “This is what the Kiltwalk is all about, people like Lisa making a difference to the charities that are close to their hearts. We’re looking forward to welcoming Lisa and her family on the route in Aberdeen and would like to wish them the very best of luck.”
If you want to take part in the Kiltwalk for SBH Scotland, find out more at www.sbhscotland.org.uk/kiltwalk.
For more information on the Kiltwalk, visit https://www.thekiltwalk.co.uk/
Lisa and her Kiltwalk team