A dancer is preparing to honour her teacher by conquering her fear of heights for a zip line challenge over the River Clyde.
Jemma McRae, who ran the Academy Street Dance Studio in Aberdeen, died in February aged 43, after a five-year battle with cancer.
She was well-known across the north-east for bringing a love of dancing to hundreds of aspiring youngsters, and helped raise thousands of pounds for cancer charities by hosting events since her diagnosis in 2014.
Now dedicated pupil Rebekah Page is preparing to fly 1,000ft through the air tomorrow to raise cash for Breast Cancer Care in her memory, alongside boyfriend Ben Philip.
Miss Page, a trainee solicitor, admitted both she and her boyfriend are terrified of heights but said she wanted to do something to honour Ms McRae’s memory.
The 24-year-old said: “Jemma was like a second mum to me.
“I watched this horrible disease take away a friend, teacher, daughter, sister, partner and mother away from us all.
“Jemma bravely fought off her cancer the first time, but when it came back and was told it was terminal, we were all heartbroken.
“Her strength of character was inspirational, continuing to put others before her illness.
“I hope the money raised will help the work of Breast Cancer Care to support others going through the devastating impact cancer brings to so many people in Scotland.
“Not only will it be a wonderful and hopefully fun way to raise money, it will also help conquer our own fears.”
Journalist Mr Philip added: “To be quite honest, a zip line to most people might sound like fun, but stepping off a platform 150ft above the ground is a tad out of my comfort zone.
“But I’m absolutely delighted to be involved with something that raises money for such an important cause.
“Jemma was one of a kind, and I know her passing has affected so many people in Aberdeen.
“I hope by doing this it will encourage others to get out there and tackle cancer head-on, just as she did.”
So far, the pair have almost raised £600.To donate to the couple’s fundraiser, visit www.justgiving.com and search for “Rebekah and Ben Zip Slide the Clyde”.
