Updated on Apr 30th 2011 at 2:55 PM from the JustGiving API
The generosity of others, whether it be in giving up their time to come along on this adventure, or parting with their hard earned cash, never ceases to amaze and inspire me. Thanks to everyone for their support - 7 days and we'll be well on our way!
West Highland Way 7th May 2011 in aid of Calum's Cabin
A couple of years back I watched one of the most inspiring stories about a brave young lad called Calum who lived on the Isle of Bute just off the west coast of Scotland who at the age of 11 had been diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour. Instead of letting this terrible illness get him down, Calum and his family had decided that they would like to keep helping others by building a Holiday Cabin in Calum's name, a place that would provide peaceful sanctuary and happy memories for other families who have a child dealing with cancer, giving them the chance to experience Calum's island and have a wonderful holiday on the Isle of Bute. 13 months after being diagnosed, Calum passed away at home but his memory lives on through the holidays and memories that Calum's Cabin (www.calumscabin.com) provides for others.
As a dad of an 8 year old boy and someone who has lost various family members and friends to cancer, the story really struck home how lucky we are and how we should make the most of the opportunities life presents us. So in late 2010 I decided it was time to do my bit, no matter how small, I wanted to help in some way. And so I decided that this year would be the year I would walk 96 miles of Scotland's most beautiful and rugged scenery to raise money for Calum's Cabin. What started out as me wanting to do something very close to my heart, has very quickly turned into a real team effort and i've been amazed at peoples generosity and enthusiasm to join in.
So on 7th May 2011, myself and 9 colleagues from Sky (Nic Conway, Stuart Coyle, Jo Curtis, Caroline Cromarty, Andy Campbell, Angela Speirs, Nikki Melville, Dougie Walker and Craig McPhee) will set out from Milngavie on an adventurous trek to Fort William where we hope to arrive 5 days later, safe, exhausted and with any luck still all talking to each other.
All the money raised by the team will go to Calum's Cabin which costs £600 per week to run and covers the cost of ferry fares, local activities on the island and some spending money for the families as well as covering the day to day running costs of the house. For many people illness brings financial hardship, especially when parents have to take time off work or give up their jobs to look after a child with long term illness. Calum's Cabin ensures families benefit from a weeks holiday at a time they need it the most without having to worry.
Please help us all raise as much money as possible and provide happy memories for as many families as possible.
Thanks
