Fife family tackling East Lomond 15 times for MND fundraiser

In 2015, Alison Milne’s uncle, Andrew, was diagnosed with MND, losing his fight two years later.

Eager to set themselves a fitness challenge and raise money for charity, Alison, her two sons, Cameron (5) and Max (11), and husband Daniel, decided to support Doddie Aid – the fundraiser exercise event inspired by former rugby player and MND sufferer Doddie Weir – and chose a unique challenge.

The family are in the process of climbing East Lomond 15 times – hitting the nine mark on Wednesday – and have so far raised £1283, smashing their £300 target.

Other family members did a trek across the Kalahari desert in 2016 to raise funds for MND research, and, while any desert trips were off the menu because of the current lockdown, the family wanted to do a walking challenge.

With East Lomond visible from their home, it was an easy decision to choose where to do the challenge.

“The boys were keen to do something to give them a focus for exercise during lockdown,” said Alison, who is currently home schooling.

“We wanted to do something for charity and it just so happened to coincide with Doddie Aid.

“It’s fantastic to do this for charity and also tires the boys out.”

Alison, Daniel, Cameron and Max have faced wind, rain and snow while climbing up the hill, but have overcome each challenge.

They have also tried to do something different for each climb.

“Last weekend it was pretty snow,” said Alison.

“We faced a blizzard and we were crawling to the top.”

The family have taken bagpipes to the top for a windy performance, and even did the walk after dark. There are plans to do the challenge in kilts.

Alison said that while the first few walks were tiring, the group have got fitter during the challenge.

She added: “Getting outside is so important at the moment, especially for the kids who are so isolated.”

If you would like to learn more about the challenge or make a donation, visit the fundraising website – www.justgiving.com/fundraising/MaxandCameronLomondSherpas.