An eleven-year-old Paisley schoolgirl has taken part in the Glasgow Kiltwalk in memory of her late gran.
Cara Reilly Brown’s much-loved gran was diagnosed with dementia and she lived with the family until she passed away. Inspired by a dementia-friendly talk presented to her school by Alzheimer Scotland, the schoolgirl was inspired to help support people with dementia and their families by taking part in the unique sponsored walk.
Photo: Cara Reilly Brown
It led to Cara challenging her entire family to take part in the Glasgow Kiltwalk in aid of Alzheimer Scotland.
Cara Reilly Brown, said: “This year is Year of Young People and as I’m one of the ambassadors in Renfrewshire I wanted to do more to help support people living with dementia and decided to sign up to the Kiltwalk as it sounded great fun and a big challenge. I hope to raise as many funds as possible for Alzheimer Scotland. I even managed to encourage my whole family into doing it with me, my mum, dad, brother and even my dog and my brother’s girlfriend.”
Cara’s mum, Colette, added: “We’ve called ourselves #TeamPat as that’s what mum’s main carer Kim and I called ourselves. Alzheimer Scotland was there for us when we needed them. Mum had a befriender as part of her care package and the respite that gave my dad was priceless.
“It gave him much needed space to breathe and mum loved it.”
Photo: Cara and her family at the finish
Leah Cranney, a fundraiser for Alzheimer Scotland, said: “We are thrilled to hear about Cara and her family all taking part in this weekend’s Kiltwalk in support of Alzheimer Scotland. Every penny will go towards our vision – ensuring that nobody faces dementia alone.”
So far Cara has raised over £600, if you would like to make a donation to Cara’s fundraising page, please visit: https://give.everydayhero.com/uk/cara-s-kilt-walk-for-alzheimer-s-scotland.