Pete raised money to support FND research, in loving memory of Kirsten. Name The Bellany Family and Pete Barrie, Thorntree Lodge (1038) Cause fundraised for Functional neurological disorder (FND) research Method of fundraising Various fundraisers in honour of Kirsten Image Why did you decide to fundraise for your chosen cause? My good friend Dave lost his wife at the tragically young age of 36. She suffered from functional neurological disorder (FND). As she would have turned forty this year, Dave wanted to do a 26 mile sponsored walk to raise funds and commemorate it. Myself, being Right Worshipful Master of the local Masonic Lodge (Thorntree 1038), decided to suggest we have a year of activities to try to raise as much as we could to commemorate such a wonderful friend, wife and mother. How did you raise money? Raising the money - we started the challenge with a Halloween themed fancy dress silent disco. This was such a great success that we decided a fitting end would be another one as the end of the year, to “bookend” our fundraising. In between, we also held a raffle at Christmas time with brought in £3k. Myself, Dave and his lad Declan, along with several friends completed a 26 mile charity walk, and we also held an auction for signed Hearts & a Hibs football tops, a limited bottle of whisky, plus autographed Josh Taylor gloves and jersey. We also received a very generous donation from Billy Gray, a local taxi driver, who hosted a games day in memory of his late brother, which benefited us to the tune of £1,100. All these events provided a cumulative total of £8,150 that we are delighted to donate to FND research in honour of Kirsten. Fundraising wisdom My advice to anyone planning a fundraising event is to make sure you have a good group surrounding you. More hands really does make light work!! Useful links Functional disorders FND Guide (external website) This article was published on 2024-10-29
