More than £23k raised by fundraisers who hiked Ben Nevis in memory of Amy Arthur
FUNDRAISERS who scaled the UK’s tallest mountain in memory of the late Amy Arthur have been praised after raising over £23,000 for two charities.
The group climbed to the top of Ben Nevis in July in memory of Amy, who passed away suddenly last October aged 33.
Amy’s sister Iona Wilson was joined by other members of her family on the hike, including their dad Ian and uncle Billy, as well as Iona’s husband Jamie, cousin Charlie and family friends Shona and Kyle Drummond, and Marianne Clark.
More than £23,000 was raised to be shared between Shetland Bereavement Support Service (SBSS), which supported the family, and first responders through the Scottish Ambulance Service.
A cheque for £15,702.75 was presented to the bereavement service today (Saturday), along with a donation of £7,527 to first responders.
Iona said in July they wanted to thank everyone who donated to the fundraiser, adding that they were “overwhelmed” by the amount they received.
SBSS project co-ordinator Ellen Hughson praised the group for their “extraordinary achievement”.
“Climbing Ben Nevis is a challenge in itself, but doing so in Amy’s memory makes it even more meaningful,” she said.
“Grief often feels like a lonely road, yet what this family has shown is the power of walking that road together. Supporting one another, sharing memories, and speaking Amy’s name as they made their way to the summit is a beautiful tribute.
“Amy reached the top of Ben Nevis with them, carried in their hearts every step of the way.
“Thank you to everyone involved. You should be incredibly proud of your achievement.”
Hughson added that the group’s efforts “will make a real difference to people across Shetland who are facing bereavement and struggling to cope with loss.”
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“On behalf of everyone at SBSS, thank you for your kindness and support.”
Samantha Belokon-Dennis, who is a community first responder for the Westside, extended a “heartfelt thanks” to the team for their “amazing” fundraising efforts.
“It is clear how much this tribute means to everyone involved, and we are honoured that they chose to support our organisation in her memory.
“Their generous donation will help us put more first responders on the road with fully equipped response bags and defibrillators, ready to respond to medical emergencies across Shetland.
“We are incredibly grateful for your kindness, generosity and support.”
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