I am wheelchair bound from my service in the army, and lost my wife who was aged only 38 and my full time carer in February 2018, a month before our 17th wedding anniversary and her birthday.

While attending an Activity Centre near Perth for some canoe lessons, with a view to keeping myself as active as possible, I began to speak with the staff about my general situation, including the loss of my wife. 

I often said how I would love to do a fundraiser in memory of my wife since she died so young and unexpectedly, but had no real idea of how, when and what I could do. So with the help of Errin Mckay the idea of "The Big Canoe Challenge"  arose and took shape,  with others joining in and assisting in some form or another.

While looking at the services that support families and loved ones, through devastating times and that stay with them to help rebuild their lives. We decided upon Macmillan Cancer Support as the charity of choice,  with it having been doing its impeccable work for over 100 years, supporting numerous families in their most dire times of need and at their lowest.

The Big Canoe Challenge entails myself, Errin, Jim, and Ilze canoeing; in the  opposite direction to most canoe journeys; from the Falkirk Wheel along the Forth and Clyde Canal to a finish near Speirs Wharf in Glasgow. This is a massive challenge ,and involves some serious planning, not just because of my disability and the health and safety issues it raises.

Most People in their life time have been affected by cancer in some shape or form. 1 in 2 people will get cancer in a lifetime, which is a very scary statistic to think about. So by supporting us in our challenge you will not only support the people who are suffering from this dreadful disease but their loved ones who are having to deal with their world falling apart.

Please share this page with all your friends and family, as any donations be they big, or small, would mean a great deal to myself, Errin and Jim. 

So why not miss your morning Costa or Subway lunch for just one day and put a few pounds in for a fantastic charity.

Many Thanks,

The Big Canoe Dafties

Thanks for supporting my fundraising. Macmillan Cancer Support is here to help everyone with cancer live life as fully as they can, providing physical, financial and emotional support. So whatever cancer throws your way, we’re right right there with you.Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs.

Due to unforseen circumstances the Willowgate Activity Centre is no longer in a position to be able to assist me with The Big Canoe Challenge. I wish to thank them for what they been able to assist me with, and wish both the Charity and staff well for the future.

All is okay though with the training and event still being on track and is going ahead on the 27th June 2019.