Leanne Barclay-Brennan
Ten years after losing her beloved dad to motor neurone disease, Leanne challenged herself to solo hike the West Highland Way in aid of the Euan MacDonald Centre for MND Research. Walking the full 96 miles (154 km) on her own, Leanne raised almost £5,000 in his memory.
Why did you decide to fundraise for your chosen cause?
My dad Sandy and I hiked a lot together and often spoke of doing the West Highland Way, but sadly motor neurone disease (MND) prevented this from happening.
After his diagnosis in 2002, Dad himself supported the research work undertaken at the Euan MacDonald Centre. Ten years on from his death, I wanted to raise awareness of this cruel disease whilst also raising money for the Euan MacDonald Centre.
How did you raise money?
I walked the West Highland Way in October 2018, covering 96 miles in five days, by myself. I set-up a JustGiving page and regularly added photos of me out on training walks and asking people to donate to my page.
Fundraising wisdom
Set-up a JustGiving page as donors find it a safe and easy way to sponsor you. Sharing the link to your JustGiving page on Facebook is a great way to let people know about your fundraising challenge, whilst also raising awareness.