It’s best foot forward for Parkland’s Sophie as gruelling walk raises charity cash
A BUCKIE care worker has raised thousands of pounds for a charity close to her heart after taking part in a gruelling long-distance walk.
Sophie Legge, a shift leader at Parklands and Burnbank care homes, took part in this month’s Aberdeen Kiltwalk, walking almost 18 miles from the city’s Duthie Park to Bellfield Park in Banchory to support the Lily Foundation. This charity raises awareness about mitochondrial disease, a rare and often life-limiting genetic disorder.
The Lily Foundation is close to Sophie’s heart as her 20-year-old sister, Lois, lives with the condition. Despite her health challenges, Lois is currently studying Childcare at UHI Moray.
Sophie was joined on the walk by her stepfather Steven Thain, Lois’s dad, and together they raised £4800 for the charity.
Sophie said: “The walk went well, and the sun shone all day.
“We managed it in just over five hours, we soldiered on through it. There were lots of other people from Buckie taking part for local charities. It was a great atmosphere to see everyone support each other on the walk.
“The legs were very sore the next day but after a few days of recovery we were back to normal. We will definitely be taking part again next year.
“As a family we live in hope that one day a cure is found, and that Lois can live a full, healthy and happy life.”
For more information about the Lily Foundation and mitochondrial disease visit thelilyfoundation.org.uk
Mitochondrial disease, or ‘mito’, is a rare genetic disorder that can affect people in very different ways. Symptoms can start at any age and can involve any organ in the body.
There is currently no cure for mitochondrial disease, and in some cases, it can be life-limiting. However, treatments to manage symptoms are available and there is active research taking place globally to find a cure. Thanks to research, scientists are learning more daily about mitochondrial disease.
Mitochondrial dysfunction has been identified as a key factor in other more common diseases including dementia, Parkinson's disease, epilepsy and cancer.
