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PICTURES: Father and son team up for double bridge walk crossing in Ross-shire in tribute to much-loved wife and mum to support lifeline work of Pulmonary Fibrosis Trust


By Hector MacKenzie

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Jacob gets some company on the Kessock Bridge walk heading from the Black Isle and towards North Kessock.
Jacob gets some company on the Kessock Bridge walk heading from the Black Isle and towards North Kessock.

A FATHER and son team who took on a poignant double bridge walk challenge in Ross-shire at the weekend for a cause close to their hearts have edged closer a £5000 fundraising target.

Jacob Mcdonald (6) was accompanied by dad Kenny as they crossed both the Cromarty Bridge and Kessock Bridge on Sunday as part of a plucky charity fundraising effort in memory of mum and wife, Vivienne, who was only 32 when she succumbed to pulmonary fibrosis.

Their efforts are benefitting the Pulmonary Fibrosis Trust because, Mr Macdonald said, "I want to raise awareness of this terrible disease".

Supporters gather for a souvenir picture.
Supporters gather for a souvenir picture.

He said: "The views on the Cromarty were just breathtaking which made up for the strong winds and showers.The donations we received were amazing and thank you to all out there who have donated.

"We are much closer to our target too. We have now reached an amazing £4500 of our £5000 target.

"Our Bridge Walk on the Kessock Bridge was more challenging as we walked through heavy showers and Jacob, bless him, was toiling at the end of the second walk.

"It was an amazing first time experience doing two bridges in one day."

Kenny Mcdonald on one of the bridge walks.
Kenny Mcdonald on one of the bridge walks.

The dynamic duo have now conquered the Tay Bridge, Forth Bridge, Skye Bridge, Cromarty Bridge and Kessock Bridge. Next up on July 17 is the Erskine Bridge spanning the River Clyde.

He said: "Hopefully with Jacob doing this we will hit our target, raise more awareness too as regards to Pulmonary Fibrosis and find a cure one day."

Vivienne spent 18 months watching her son grow up before she died. The thoughtful mum also created memory boxes for Jacob, writing letters filled with advice for his milestone birthdays and events.

Brave Vivienne Mcdonald sadly succumbed to the disease. Her husband and son have raised awareness of a charity helping fellow sufferers ever since.
Brave Vivienne Mcdonald sadly succumbed to the disease. Her husband and son have raised awareness of a charity helping fellow sufferers ever since.

Pulmonary fibrosis is a progressive lung disease that has no cure.

More than 8000 people die from it each year in the UK.

The Pulmonary Fibrosis Trust was established to help all those affected by the disease. Help is given by providing emotional support, practical support like mobility scooters, portable oxygen and stair lifts and by raising awareness.

Tired but happy after a great two-bridge effort!
Tired but happy after a great two-bridge effort!

Related: Father and son target Ross-shire bridges in plucky fundraiser inspired by wife and mother


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