Stepping Up To Charity Challenge

How often do you go out of your way to help someone?

Popping in to chat with an elderly neighbour or actively fund-raising for a cause close to your heart?

Well, at the weekend I was surrounded by a sea of people all helping to support different causes in The Kiltwalk, where 140% of all fund-raising goes to the cause of personal choice.

The Kiltwalk in Dundee

I enjoy walking, so when my sister-in-law, along with her sister, asked me to join them on the Dundee Kiltwalk, I didn’t hesitate. Were there moments during that 25-mile trek when I rued that decision?

Truthfully, as I rolled out of bed and looked out the window as the rain fell from the grey sky, how I longed to clamber back into bed. And, around the 19-mile mark, when the blister on my foot throbbed in time to my heartbeat, I was dreaming of being back home with my feet up.

However, when you consider some of the personal stories behind why folk were taking part in the walk it’s just a marvellous platform to allow people to do their bit, and I’m grateful for the fact that I’m healthy enough to join in.

When we crossed the finish line, it definitely felt like it was all worthwhile . . . and our discarded “kilts” made an ideal bed for little Daisy, as you can see.

We’d Love To Hear From You

But you don’t need to run (or walk) a marathon, we can all help each other in lots of different ways. And, experts say volunteering is actually beneficial to your own health.

Here at the “Friend” we like to highlight the good work of charities and volunteers and we often feature “Inspiring Life” stories so, if you want to tell us yours, please get in touch as we’d love to hear from you.

Our next Inspiring Life coming up features Denise Pascoe (September 8 issue), who undertook a trek in the blistering heat of Kenya to raise funds for Compassion UK.

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