A Drumbrae children’s nursery have been so inspired by one of their children that they decided to organise a sponsored walk and obstacle course to raise funds for specialist disability charity, Spina Bifida Hydrocephalus (SBH) Scotland.
One year old Arthur MacDonald, a pupil at the local nursery, has spina bifida myelomeningocele. He was the first baby in Edinburgh to have his spina bifida lesion operated on whilst still in his mother’s womb through a pioneering in-utero surgery in Brussels. Despite the eventful start to his life, he continues to amaze his family every day with his progress.
It’s this inspirational story, as well as his cheery disposition, that was the trigger for the Drumbrae Edinburgh nursery to organise a sponsored walk around the outskirts of Fauldburn Park, raising funds for SBH Scotland, who offer support to children and families affected by these disabilities.
The sun shone and over 50 children, siblings, parents and pooches set off on their walk and raising an amazing £2,293.60 in the process.
Gayle Sim, Administrator at the nursery said: “Arthur is a lovely wee boy, and we are delighted he and his parents chose us as his nursery. We could think of no better charity to choose as our nominated charity for the year than SBH Scotland and this seemed the perfect way to start our fundraising.
She continued: “We’re overwhelmed at having raised such a phenomenal amount and we can’t wait to raise more for this amazing charity throughout the year. A massive thank you to everyone who got involved.”
SBH Scotland provide a lifetime commitment of support and information to anyone affected by the rare, complex disabilities of spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus. They offer a range of services across Scotland including 1-2-1 support in home, hospital and nurseries/schools, a helpline, an adapted holiday cottage, health and wellness clinics and support groups.
Deborah Roe, fundraising director at SBH Scotland said: “We’re incredibly grateful to the nursery as their generous donation will go towards our family support service which provides key workers, who can offer personalised support and run activities and clubs for families like the MacDonald/Milligan’s.
“Each year we need to raise £1million pounds and without donations like this, we wouldn’t be there for families at a time when they need us the most.”
If you are affected by spina bifida and would like support or information, please visit www.sbhscotland.org.uk.
If you’d like to create your own fundraising challenge or take part in a sponsored activity please contact Lynsey Hamilton, Fundraising Manager, on 03455 211 600 or email fundraising@sbhscotland.org.uk
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