Hospice bosses have hailed a young charity champion after she raised thousands of pounds for a cause close to her heart.
Nine-year-old Howwood girl Abigail Jackson has coined in more than £3,600 for St Vincent’s Hospice, which cared for her beloved grandfather Ian Weir during his battle with cancer.
Her fundraising efforts have included busking, a sponsored cycle and a challenge to walk 100 miles within a month.
In 2019, the music-loving youngster initially did some busking outside her house for a day, in return for donations, which sparked her desire to raise more money.
The following year, Abigail completed a sponsored cycle at Howwood Primary after being inspired by Second World War veteran Captain Tom Moore, who walked 100 laps of his garden to raise money for the NHS at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Abigail then conquered her challenge to walk 100 miles during July 2021, with the help of her family, coining in more than £1,300 for the hospice.
Abigail Jackson giving cheque to Hayley Simpson, of St Vincent Hospice’s fundraising team (Image: St Vincent’s Hospice)
In August this year, the Howwood Primary pupil took part in a 5k Bubble Rush event, in Queen’s Park, Glasgow, which saw participants dowsed in coloured foam as they completed the family-friendly course.
Hayley Simpson, of the fundraising team at St Vincent’s Hospice, said: “We are incredibly grateful for all of the time and effort that Abigail has put into her fundraising challenges.
“Abigail is a credit to the community.
“The funds she has raised will allow us to care for more patients and families throughout Renfrewshire and adjoining North Ayrshire.
“We are very proud of Abigail and want to say a huge thank you to her.”
Like many other charities, St Vincent’s Hospice relies on support from the public to continue offering specialist care and services to those affected by life-limiting illness.
Further details of the work done by the Howwood hospice and ways to support the charity are available at www.svh.co.uk.
