A bereaved north-east mother is appealing for walkers in the north-east to don kilts and raise money to help terminally ill children enjoy a stress-free week away.
Dylan Lewis was diagnosed with a very rare type of brain tumour when he was just 13 years old, and died just two days before his 15th birthday in July 2016.
The Meldrum Academy pupil had to travel from his home in Tarves to Edinburgh Sick Children’s Hospital and Aberdeen Royal Infirmary for specialist treatment.
Because he was a teenager, Dylan was often treated alongside other adults and often felt completely out of place, and missed his life back home with friends and at school.
But during his treatment, his mother Dawn was told about a special retreat on the Isle of Bute where children with cancer and their families can stay.
The family were offered a week’s holiday free of charge, thanks to charity Calum’s Cabin.
Now his mum is gearing up to take part in this year’s Aberdeen Kiltwalk to raise money in recognition of their support.
Mrs Lewis said: “As much as Dylan would have loved to see me skydive or get a crazy tattoo to raise these funds, I’m getting a big group of friends and family to be part of his team to remember him in our own way. What Calum’s Cabin does for families is something so special and they make you feel so welcome. We are keen that any other families who need it know it’s there for them too.”
Dylan would have been 17 this year, and Ms Lewis is urging those who knew him to take part in the walk on June 3 to ensure more families have the chance to visit Bute.
Mrs Lewis added: “As a parent, you just want your child to live their life to the fullest for however long that might be for, and going to the cottage gave us everlasting memories we can never lose.”
Participants can complete the five-mile Wee Wander, the 14.8 mile Big Stroll of the 26-mile Mighty Stride.
To regisiter, visit www.thekiltwalk.co.uk or to find out more about Calum’s Cabin, visit www.calumscabin.com