Sister's Fyrish climbs hit a fundraising high
Freya Anderson (20) of Alness set herself the task of scaling Easter Ross landmark Fyrish every single day in February, whatever the weather, in memory of brother Callumn who lost a bravely fought fight with leukaemia aged just nine.
Callumn's plight spurred thousands of people to register with the Anthony Nolan Trust which offers a lifeline by matching bone marrow and stem cell donors with those desperately in need.
Freya, who works in a local Co-op, initially set herself a modest £300 target for the charity but has now cleared £2000, including donations to her workplace.
She told supporters on her Justgiving page: "My brother sadly lost his battle with leukaemia back in August 2005. It left a massive hole in our hearts. I didn’t just lose my brother, I lost my best friend. He was a massive character, funny, kind, caring and was always up to mischief. He still is the bravest boy I have ever met. He never let his illness keep him down. If I could even help just one person find their match I would be happy."
Admitting the effort got off to a challenging start, Freya, who posted a picture at the distinctive peak-top monument every day, said: "On the first night I started out after work in the pitch dark and the snow was up to my hips. That said, it has become part of my daily routine and I'd definitely do it again.
"I met a lot of people along the way. Everyone has been really positive and supportive. I wanted to start the year in a positive way so it has been great. I'd like to say a big thanks to everyone who donated."
As well as retracing steps made as children, Freya's touching tribute also saw her joined for one of the ascents by gran Moira Pew, who hadn't been up in more than 30 years. Moira, who also lives in Alness, said: "I first walked up Fyrish in the early eighties and although the thought of it this time around was a little daunting I really wanted to support Freya as well as walk the path in Callumn's memory, so was determined to make it."
Freya's father, also Callumn, said yesterday: "So many people have said to me that Freya is an inspiration and I am incredibly proud of what she has achieved. She has not only raised money but also awareness of the life saving work that the Anthony Nolan Trust do as well as how easy and important it is to join the register. It is amazing and touching to see the local response as well as donations that have come from as far afield as Australia and Canada. I know that her brother would be just as proud of Freya as we are."
