A young brother and sister from Hamilton are set to take on a 100-mile trek along the West Highland Way to raise funds for Parkinson’s UK.
Luke McAulay (11) and sister Carly (10) are joining their dad Will in memory of their grandfather, Billy Cavin, who lived with the condition for several years before he died in 2015.
The family have been training hard ahead of their five days of backpacking and camping, and they are hoping to raise awareness as well as money to help find a cure.
Luke said: “I’m looking forward to raising as much money as possible. I am excited about camping out, climbing the Devil’s Staircase and watching the stars at night.
“It means a lot to me to being do this for my papa. I want to help people who have the same illness that my papa had and make their lives better. I am doing this for you papa – I really miss you.”
FACEBOOK: Join in the chat with thousands of our followers
Carly said: “I’m very nervous about doing such a long walk but excited too. I loved my papa, and I’m doing this for him. It feels good to be able to raise money and help people.”
And dad Will, pictured training with the two children for the upcoming charity walk, added: “I’m really excited to be attempting the West Highland Way with my two kids for a great cause that is close to our hearts.
“Billy was not just a father-in-law but a very close friend and a father figure to me. Seeing him struggle with Parkinson’s was very difficult for all the family. Billy loved his family and cherished his grandchildren and every moment spent with them.
“This is our small attempt to help care and support other families going through the effects of this terrible condition.”
Jan Mattison, Parkinson’s UK regional fundraiser, said: “Parkinson’s UK is delighted that the McAulay family is supporting us with such an ambitious challenge. They deserve everyone’s backing and we’d love it if as many people as possible can show Will, Luke and Carly how much their efforts are appreciated.
“It’s only through the endeavours of families like the McAulays that Parkinson’s UK can continue to provide high-quality local services and fund research that will lead to a cure for Parkinson’s.”
To support the McAulay’s efforts next month, go to www.justgiving.com/fundraising/caroline-mcaulay
