This Sat, 29th Oct I will be taking part in The Illuminator - 24k, in the dark, running up and down hills through the forests of Glen Tanar.
The 29th Oct would also have been Mum & Dad's Golden Wedding, so I've decided to run the race in memory of Dad and fundraise for two causes that were important to him - 1st Ellon Boys Brigade & British Lung Foundation.
Dad committed many years to Ellon Boys Brigade - as a young lad, an officer and also served as Captain for a number of years. I have many happy memories of Dad at BBs - drill marching, somersaulting on the trampoline, handspringing over the box and a number of happy summers spent at BB camp. Ellon Boys Brigade have just bought a new marquee with existing funds and are now looking to raise more money for new tents for the boys to use at summer camp next year. My boys have followed in their Granda's footsteps and been active members of the 1st Ellon Company.
Dad was diagnosed with a lung condition which caused him to give up many of the activities he enjoyed and also led to early retirement. He never stopped smiling throughout his illness, right up to the end when, after a 5 month spell in hospital, he died at the age of 63.
Had Dad still been with us today, I know that he would've enjoyed nothing more than a shindig to celebrate 50 years with Mum (not sure how keen Mum would've been!) So in memory of Dad, I will be running 24k in the dark, up and down hills in the forests of Glen Tanar with only a headtorch to guide me and the support & encouragement from my 3 running buddies Pam, Vikki & Fraser. Sounds like some daft thing Dad would've done....
Any donations would be greatly appreciated. It would be great to give back something to the Boys Brigade, for all the happy times Dad had over many years and also to donate to the British Lung Foundation so that they can continue helping those with lung disorders.

Thank you in advance for your kindness & generosity.

Julie xx

www.illuminatorrun.co.uk