Kyle of Lochalsh RNLI helmsman’s son (3) inspired to raise funds for lifeboat through Mayday Mile
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A young boy has been inspired by his dad’s lifesaving work for the RNLI to launch a fundraiser in aid of the charity.
Finlay MacDonald (3) and his mum Heather are going to walk a mile every day in May to raise vital funds for the RNLI’s Kyle of Lochalsh lifeboat station.
Finlay was inspired by his father Andrew MacDonald, who is helmsman on the Kyle lifeboat, to take part in the RNLI Mayday Mile challenge.
The young boy’s participation came about after he said he wanted to “get some money to buy petrol for the lifeboat”.
Andrew said: “Finlay has seen me drop everything and run out the house when the pager goes off, and he says he wants to be part of the crew like me when he is 'big enough'.
“I had been explaining to him the RNLI is funded by donations and that people raise money to help the lifeboat run, and he said he wanted to 'get some money to buy petrol for the lifeboat'.
“As the RNLI was launching the Mayday campaign we thought about the Mayday Mile challenge and he said he wanted to do it. I'm not sure he knows what he's let himself in for, but he is determined he wants to do it, and he has my stubborn streak so I'm sure he'll manage it! We are just hoping for decent weather throughout May!”
Before May had even begun Finlay and his mum had already almost reached their initial £200 target, so hopes are high that they will raise plenty more as the month progresses.
Urging people to donate, Heather and Finlay’s fundraising page said: “During summertime, more people flock to beaches and coastal towns to make the most of everything they have to offer – from glorious sunshine to adventurous watersports. And as temperatures rise, so do calls from people in trouble by the water.
“By answering this Mayday call and giving a gift today, you can make a real, lifesaving difference. Your kindness will help give volunteers everything they need to launch to the rescue, and make sure they’re ready to face their busiest season.”
To donate, go to https://fundraise.rnli.org/fundraisers/walkingfordaddy.
