An elderly woman who has suffered from a painful leg problem for seven years has been given a new lease of life thanks to a revolutionary treatment.
Marion Macdonald, 79, was hit by a shopping trolley seven years ago, leaving her with a small wound which turned into a large ulcer.
Some conventional treatments made it even worse, leaving Mrs Macdonald, of Hamewith Court, Alford, in constant pain.
But in March she was offered a place on a trial at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary (ARI) for a new treatment, which has shrunk the wound by two-thirds and allowed her to get out and about again.
Mrs Macdonald, who celebrates her 80th birthday tomorrow, said: “I used to be active until about seven years ago. It stopped me from walking very far. I was at home most of the time, but now I’m able to go out on my buggy on my own.”
The shock wave therapy uses pressure and sound to encourage tissue regeneration, according to ARI consultant Paul Bachoo.
He added: “For the first time we have got the opportunity to offer something over and above what we have tried and failed with. It works.”
Members of Mrs Macdonald’s family were so impressed by the machine – which is currently on loan to the hospital – that they decided to kick start a fundraising campaign to help pay for the £40,000 equipment. They have now handed over a cheque for £2,415 to the hospital.
Mrs Macdonald’s daughter, Sheila McGuigan, of French Drive, Alford, said: “Not only has the size of her wound reduced significantly, but my mother has been able to reduce her painkilling medication by 50%, which means that her quality of life has improved immeasurably.
“The vascular unit at the hospital is keen to have a machine on a permanent basis and the family rallied round to raise funds.”
They raised the money by packing bags at the Alford Co-op and have received dozens of pledges from local residents and businesses in support of their 80-mile sponsored cycle or walk from Culter to Ballater, which will involve 22 members and four generations of the family, on Sunday.
Mrs Macdonald and husband, Donnie, will join the family at Aboyne to do a section on mobility scooters.
To sponsor the family visit www.big80challenge.co.uk