Wick woman takes fundraiser of the year title at Highland Heroes
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It was the tragic loss of her son and his love of horses that inspired the Highland Heroes 2022 fundraiser of the year.
Heather Rosie (56), from Wick, lost her 11-year-old son Dale in 2007 following a series of health complications.
He had a passion for horses and had taken part in events run by the Caithness branch of the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA).
It was this terrible loss, and knowing the impact the charity had on Dale, that inspired Heather and daughter Claire Fraser (38) to start fundraising.
Since then Heather, and her daughter Claire Fraser, have raised more than £47,000 for the cause.
The nomination said: “Heather and Claire go above and beyond to gain bingo and raffle prizes from individuals and businesses from Caithness (and further afield) to ensure they raise lots of funds. “They have a great reputation for fundraising and local people love the prizes they win!”
Sadly Heather was unwell and could not attend Highland Heroes 2022 event at the Kingsmills Hotel on Thursday night in Inverness to pick up her award.
Luckily Claire was on hand.
In a proud Facebook post Claire said: “Dale……..my boy……this is all for you! This is what we all work for and what keeps us going each year with the help and support of family, friends, the amazing local community and even further afield. Love you and miss you so much, this is what keeps your memory alive.”
And speaking from home, Heather added: “I'm just absolutely delighted.
“I thought the other people shortlisted in the category were far more deserving. Just to be shortlisted meant a lot to us.
“My son had a passion for the horses.
“We just decided to start fundraising for them.”
Events have included online raffles, sponsored walks and prize bingo all to raise money for the Caithness RDA.
Related articles: PICTURES: Highland Heroes 2022 honours
