An inspiring eight-year-old charity fundraiser from East Kilbride has scooped a prestigious charity award after she raised £2k for a spina bifida charity.
Eight-year-old Laila McRae from East Kilbride was crowned the Charity Champion at the annual Scottish Power Foundation awards after her fundraising efforts for Spina Bifida Hydrocephalus Scotland (SBH Scotland).
The charity supports Laila's sister Amber after she was born with spina bifida and hydrocephalus and went through multiple operations throughout the first year of her life.
Laila raised an incredible £2,000 for the charity, even completing the KiltWalk in April, despite having been diagnosed with juvenile athritis herself.
She also drew rainbows around her local community and includied a JustGiving link to SBH Scotland.
Laila’s mum Leanne said: “SBH Scotland has supported our family and Amber all the way through her journey. It’s been hard for us, but there was no stopping Laila when she decided she wanted to help!
"We’re so proud of what she has achieved for Amber and everyone supported by the charity – it was no mean feat, but she did it. She is real inspiration to everyone around her and we’re so chuffed the ScottishPower Foundation has recognised that.
Clare Cogan Turner at Spina Bifida Hydrocephalus Scotland, which is based in Cumbernauld, said: “The past twelve months have been hugely challenging for the voluntary sector and for the families we support.
"Almost overnight, we had to write off about 50 per cent of our fundraising income. However, thanks to the selfless support of individuals like Laila, we are able to continue supporting families across Scotland affected by spina bifida/hydrocephalus. Laila is a wee star and we can't think of anyone more deserving of the Charity Champion award."
The ScottishPower Foundation was established in 2013 to make a significant and lasting contribution to society, enhancing the lives of people living in communities throughout the UK.
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