A mother and son have teamed up to fund 10 crucial dialysis machines at the north-east’s flagship hospital.
Hiezel Cowie led a campaign to raise almost £100,000 for the vital technology after learning first-hand about its benefits.
Since 2016 she has visited the renal unit at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary three times a week, where the machines “clean” her blood by removing waste products as her kidneys are no longer able to.
Keen to find a way to give something back, last year Mrs Cowie and her son, Simon, decided they would help the health board by joining its efforts to replace its ailing fleet of dialysis units.
They quickly recruited staff at accountancy firm Infinity Partnership, where Mr Cowie is a managing partner.
And the pair were able to raise the £95,000 needed within just 12 months.
The majority of the cash was generated through a ladies’ lunch, an afternoon tea and a glamorous gala ball attended by scores of family, friends, work colleagues and clients.
Mrs Cowie and her son have now formally handed over the money, assisting NHS Grampian’s plans to for 100 new dialysis units.
She said: “The staff at the unit are simply wonderful and I’m delighted that they now have upgraded equipment.
“I never dreamed that the events would raise so much money and I am proud of my family’s achievement.
“I am truly overwhelmed by the support of all my family and friends and I cannot thank everyone enough for their part in making each event such a success.”
Mr Cowie said: “I was truly amazed by the level of support, in particular for the ball which was organised by my wife Tracy and Infinity staff.
“Through this fundraising experience I’ve discovered that just about everyone I’ve come into contact with has their own story, or knows someone who has relied on dialysis.
“My mother should be extremely proud of her achievement – it was a fantastic effort.”
Sheena Lonchay, operational manager for NHS Grampian Charities, said: “We’re delighted to receive this donation and thank everyone for the part they played in raising such a significant sum.”
