Six kind-hearted fundraisers climbed the UK’s highest mountain in aid of a North Berwick youngster.
Edward Danks, Sandra Duguid and Jenny Edgar, from solicitors Paris Steele W.S, together with local parents Caroline Danks, Sharon Wellwood and Iain Mallen scaled the 1,344m-tall Ben Nevis, near Fort William, to raise money for Eliza McKinney, the North Berwick youngster who has a rare neurological conditon.
Rett Syndrome is a rare genetic condition which affects 1 in 12,000 girls, and means Eliza is unable to perform everyday tasks, such as walk and play.
Mr Danks told the Courier on Monday that the group’s fundraising total had passed their target of £2,000.
He said: “The climb up Ben Nevis was a huge challenge for us. We hope that in raising funds we will be playing our own little part in helping Eliza and finding a cure.” Their fundraising efforts have been praised by Catherine McKinney, Eliza’s mum.
She said: “Having known Caroline and Eddie Danks since before Eliza was born, Ross and I were very touched when we heard that Paris Steele wanted to support us in this way.
“Raising money is so important, as scientific research into a cure for Rett Syndrome receives little funding other than from parent-led fundraisers.
“Scientists believe that a cure will be possible one day, but it remains just beyond our grasp.
“In the meantime, our daughter remains unable to walk and unable to talk to us, or to let us know why she is unhappy or in pain.
“Eliza may never be able to climb a mountain, but we would be over the moon if she took her first steps one day.” The Hope for Eliza Ball was held in the Macdonald Marine Hotel earlier this month, and raised over £30,000 for Reverse Rett. Andy Stevenson, from the charity, described the latest fundraiser as “fantastic”.
He said: “Eliza is inspiring so much support within her community and beyond and, with treatments now on the horizon, we are committed to continuing to fund as much research into Rett Syndrome as we can.” Anyone interested in sponsoring their efforts can visit any of the Paris Steele W.S. offices throughout East Lothian, text PSBN55 £3 to 70070, or donate at justgiving.com/ParisSteeleWS
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