A Barrhead stroke survivor is preparing to take on the Forth Bridge Abseil to raise money for Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland.
Martin McKelvie suffered a stroke in 2022 as he pulled into his driveway. He was unable to move or speak.
The stroke left the 60-year-old grandfather with aphasia, a language disorder which affects around one in three stroke survivors.
Martin joined a stroke communication group run by Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland in Paisley. He is now a volunteer with the charity and a walk leader for its Paisley Walking Group at Barshaw Park.
He will take part in the abseil with his son-in-law William, Joanne and Kerris on Sunday 4th October.
Martin, a former area manager with Glasgow City Council, said: “My sister has ran a half marathon for CHSS and last year my wife and family did the Kiltwalk so I felt I should do something too.
“My son-in-law and myself were looking at events that we could do. We picked the abseil and the four of us signed up. They realise how much CHSS helps people and how much of a difference it has made to me. He and Kerris can see that, as a service user and now as a volunteer, it has helped me.
“It’s about trying to do something for CHSS because, being a volunteer, I know every penny makes a difference.”
Photo: Barrhead stroke survivor Martin McKelvie, who is preparing to take part in the Forth Bridge Abseil for Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland
Photo Credit: Martin McKelvie
William, Kerris and Joanne said: “Martin wouldn’t be where he is today without the support he received from CHSS. Seeing the difference they’ve made to his life is why we wanted to take on this challenge and raise money so they can continue helping other stroke survivors.”
People from Renfrewshire are also being encouraged to sign up for the event, which will involve descending from the Forth Bridge.
The abseil is organised by Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland in partnership with Network Rail and Balfour Beatty. It has raised more than £3 million for charities across Scotland since 2003.
Stephanie Wilks, community, events and corporate fundraiser for Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland, said: “There’s still time for people to join forces for an unforgettable experience which makes such a powerful difference to the 1 in 5 people across Scotland living with one of our conditions.
“Our fundraising team is ready to help you get prepared for the big day but there are only a limited number of spaces left so we would encourage anyone who wants to take part in a truly thrilling fundraiser to sign up now.”
Martin’s fundraiser is available at www.justgiving.com/page/martin-mckelvie-1.
More information about the Forth Bridge Abseil is available at www.chss.org.uk/supportus/fundraise-for-us/events/forth-bridge-abseil-2026.
Anyone living with the effects of heart disease or stroke can contact the Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland Advice Line on 0808 801 0899. People can also text NURSE to 66777 or email adviceline@chss.org.uk.