Ross-shire nurse's poignant Munro climb tribute to brother smashes fundraising target and boosts suicide awareness across the Highlands
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A ROSS-SHIRE nurse has touched hearts and boosted good causes with an inspirational mountain-climbing challenge inspired by her brother.
Supported by friends and family, Katie Mackay (27), who now lives in Conon Bridge but is originally from Cromarty, set out in March to climb 30 Munros in memory of her brother Calum, who took his own life.
She has to date raised well over £8000, surpassing the £3000 target she had set herself.
Ms Mackay's aunt, Sarah Pickett, said the family were hugely proud of all that Ms Mackay has achieved with her Team Calum 30 Munro Challenge.
She said: "We were all completely devastated four years ago when Calum took his own life. He would have been 30 this month, and so Katie set out to climb the same number of Munros to raise awareness and to raise money for charity.
"It has been tough for her – not only is she holding down a full time job as a busy nurse, but she has also suffered the loss of her aunt, to ill health, who she was very close to. Katie nursed her and looked after her, as well."
Mrs Pickett, who is Katie's mum's sister, said: "Calum was a lovely young man who was loved by so many people. He was an offshore worker and a trained joiner.
"We had no idea how low he was."
She said that 10 years before his death, their grandfather also committed suicide. She said: "We lost my dad to suicide 10 years ago and Calum's death was completely different. It is fair to say that we didn't have a clue to how he was feeling.
"His life looked perfect and there were no signs of any problems.Katie has been raising awareness of suicide, and we are very proud of her. She has been making every climb along with her wee dog, Kai who is a working cocker spaniel.
"Katie, and Kai have been wearing red bow ties"
Mrs Pickett said that her niece was meeting people on the hills all the time and raising awareness of suicide.
Ms Mackay said: "In October 2017, my family and I experienced a life-changing event. We were left with many unanswered questions as my big brother, Calum, left this world. He had a heart full of gold, yet he felt that life was too much for him.
"When Calum died, my family and I decided we would like to hold a large charity event for his 30th birthday. We wanted to raise money for suicide awareness charities and bereaved family support groups and show our appreciation to so many people who supported us.
"As his younger sister, and not much of a hillwalker, I have challenged myself to climb 30 Munros in memory of Calum. He loved the outdoors and nature.
"While he had never climbed a Munro, I know he sure would have loved to.
"So, what better way to remember him by throwing a backpack over my shoulders, clipping his red bow tie to my jacket, and beginning the steep ascent to see the top of Scotland’s biggest mountains with our wee dog Kai.
"I am hoping to raise awareness and fundraise for charities doing truly amazing work, such as: Crocus Group, Mikeysline, James Support Group, SAMH, and Cruse Scotland."
To donate, visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/teamcalum
