On the 75th Anniversary of VE day, just a few days ahead of what would have been his 100th birthday, Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity is asking people to share their remembrances of Tom, and to make a donation in his memory to help the children, families and staff of the Sick Kids hospital.
12 May 2020 marks what would have been the 100th Birthday of one of Edinburgh’s most beloved citizens – Tom Gilzean.
An indomitable spirit, decorated war veteran, and retired bus driver, Tom took up collecting for charity after his wife Anne died, and raised well over £1 million for his chosen charities.
Come rain or shine, he could be found in his bow tie and tartan trews, proudly displaying his medals and asking people to “open up their hearts” for the Sick Kids. When asked why he kept going with his phenomenal fundraising Tom would say, “I just want to help the children and keep them safe.”
When Tom passed away in November 2019, crowds lined Princes Street to witness his funeral cortege, scenes that would be unimaginable today as the centre of Edinburgh lies silent and deserted.
This spring, a host of events had been planned to honour Tom on his 100th birthday. Lockdown is preventing such public celebrations of the life of such an extraordinary man, but his incredible contribution to Edinburgh life should not be allowed to slip by.
While it is impossible to know what Tom would have made of the current situation, his son Douglas said, “I’m sure dad would have tried his best to find a way to help.”
You can email your memories of Tom to hello@echcharity.org, tweet us @echcharity or leave a message with your donation.
Please “open up your heart” and keep Tom’s memory alive by supporting the children and families of the Sick Kids.
Thank you.
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