A GREENOCK engineer whose daughter defied the odds by learning to walk is preparing for a charity challenge to give back to those who have supported his family.
Kyle MacDonald and his wife Ashleigh will be taking part in the Kiltwalk’s Mighty Stride next month in aid of the Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity (GCHC).
The couple will begin their fundraising effort at Glasgow Green, covering 23 miles on their way to Balloch on April 28.
Kyle, a senior engineer with Kilpatrick Blane Services, and his family received vital support from GCHC following the birth of their daughter Harley in 2020.
Before Harley was born, doctors diagnosed her with Aicardi syndrome – a rare condition which researchers say affects just 4,000 people worldwide.
The disorder - which occurs almost exclusively in girls - prevents fibres in the brain from fully developing in utero and can cause developmental delay and learning difficulties.
Ashleigh said: “We didn’t think she would be ever able to walk, but then we were told about a type of physio called hippotherapy and the charity gave us a grant.
“Since then, Kyle and I have wanted to do things to give back.”
GCHC provided the couple with £500 towards the cost of a 10-week block at the Glasgow Riding for the Disabled Association at Sandyflat Stables.
Hippotherapy sees the movement of a horse used to achieve treatment goals for patients with disabilities.
Harley took her first steps in July last year, aged two and a half, with her parents saying the therapy was ‘invaluable’.
Along with Harley's older siblings Grace and Archie, Kyle and Ashleigh raised £1,500 for GCHC through a sponsored walk two years ago, as well as making donations to Glasgow RDA through Kilpatrick Blane's charity initiative.
Kyle hopes to hand over another generous donation upon completion of the Kiltwalk.
He told the Tele: “I would encourage people to donate as the GCHC is a valuable resource for all parents and children when they attend hospital appointments or are inpatients within the hospital.
“From volunteers at the entrance way, directing parent and their child to clinics, to play workers offering toys and play experiences to kids - as well as lots of other valuable services.”
With seven weeks to go, Kyle and Ashleigh have already exceeded their fundraising target of £500.
To donate to their appeal visit justgiving.com.
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