Highland trio inspired to take on Three Peaks Challenge after hearing of Inverness mum's multiple sclerosis (MS) fight
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A MUM'S heartbreaking multiple sclerosis fight and battle with insurers to pay out money that could fund life-changing treatment have inspired a trio to take on a major charity challenge.
Jacqueline Paul, Kiera Scott and Siobhan Macbeath will be embarking on the famous Three Peaks Challenge tomorrow (Monday) in the hope of raising cash for Culloden mum Jade Taylor.
Ms Taylor (38), who has two children aged 10 and seven, was diagnosed with a particularly aggressive form of MS in February 2021.
She said the diagnosis hit her like a "sledgehammer" and she has since been raising funds to help her travel to Mexico for treatment which could 'reboot' her immune system and possibly halt, or even reverse, her illness.
But a hoped for health insurance payout that would have covered the cost failed to materialise after her insurer, Zurich, argued she'd been symptomatic at the time she took out her policy – even though a diagnosis of MS was not made by doctors until many months after she'd begun payments and medics did not suspect the condition at the time either.
News that Zurich was refusing to pay out was a bitter blow for Jade, who has vowed to continue to fight the decision. But now her tale has sparked the kind-hearted gesture from Jacqueline, Kiera and Siobhan.
Related: Highland mum battling multiple sclerosis (MS) vows to fight on over insurance payout refusal
Inspired to help her out after reading her story in The Inverness Courier, the trio will embark on the gruelling challenge of climbing the highest peaks of Scotland, Wales and England in just 24 hours this coming Monday.
Their outdoor adventure will see them tackle the famous peaks of Ben Nevis, Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) and Scafell Pike.
If successful they will walk a combined distance of 23 miles, climb more than 3000 metres and drive 462 miles – all in less than a single day.
To donate to their fundraising Three Peaks Challenge, go to www.gofundme.com/f/3-peaks-challenge-for-jades-ms-treatment. At the time of writing the trio had raised £570 towards their initial £1000 target.
Jade was very moved that the trio will be tackling this famous challenge to help towards the cost of her treatment.
She said: "It's such a massive task to take on. I’m so proud and honoured they are doing this for me.
"Many fail this challenge but I’m sure the girls will smash it! Made of tough stuff!"
Jade's fundraising total currently stands at just under £44,500 – slightly more than £11,500 below her £56,000 target.
To donate to Jade's fundraiser go to www.gofundme.com/f/hsct-treatment-in-mexico-to-stop-my-ms.
