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Sparkling charity marathon will boost Badenoch respite for cancer cases





A one-woman mega challenge to raise £21,000 in 21 events over 21 months gets under way in February for the charity behind Badenoch's Sparkle Lodge.

Mother of two Lauren Donald became a trustee for Abbie's Sparkle Foundation, which gives families who are coping with child cancers the chance of a free trip away, along with cash to help with expenses while there.

She told the Strathy: "Abbie died at just 15 with sarcoma cancer. She would have been 21 in October 2023, so I have decided to do a fundraiser like no other, which will climax on that birthday.

Lauren Donald (second right, front) has 'only done' the Banchory Beast but now aims to complete 21 different challenges over 21 months.
Lauren Donald (second right, front) has 'only done' the Banchory Beast but now aims to complete 21 different challenges over 21 months.

"I am no trained athlete and, other than the Banchory Beast, I have never taken part in events like these before. I am simply a mother who wants to support this amazing charity and raise as much as I can.

"I have four main sponsors for the event, one of which is Ellis Brigham in Aviemore and a lot of local companies are supporting me with raffle prizes. Some of the events will be in the strath and I hope to arouse a lot of support for this wonderful cause."

The six berth statics holiday home Sparkle Lodge opened at Dalraddy Holiday Park by Aviemore, in August 2019 and has proved an outstanding success.

Now the Ellon-based mum is preparing to ensure that continues with her amazing programme, starting on February 26 with the 5k Cluny Run.

Her challenge will take her around the country for various events including the 26.5-mile Speyside Kiltwalk in October, Go Swim in Loch Morlich and the Aviemore Triathlon.

'Warming up' with a Ne'er Day dip in Loch Insh: Lauren with her equally brave children Caleb and Kaedee
'Warming up' with a Ne'er Day dip in Loch Insh: Lauren with her equally brave children Caleb and Kaedee

Swimming, running and cycling hold no fears for the woman who brave Loch Insh's Ne'er Day plunge for charity with her children Caleb and Kaedee.

Lauren has already established her Just Giving page and has started collecting donations.

Full details of her amazing challenge attempt are available at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/21sparklechallenge


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