Highland business leaders seeking to ‘raise ransom’ for their release in special Inverness fundraiser in aid of baby loss charity Held In Our Hearts
Business leaders in Inverness are being held to ransom - all in aid of charity.
The business figures have been “locked behind medieval gates” at the city’s Kingsmills Hotel - with each competing to raise their “ransoms” in support of baby loss charity Held In Our Hearts.
From 9am to 4pm today (Monday) they’ll compete in the high-stakes fundraiser, Freedom of the Clans, and will only be ‘released’ once they’ve hit their targets.
Freedom of the Clans, brings a bold twist to traditional fundraising. Each leader will take on Highland Games, medieval challenges, and a final face-off against the rival Inverness clan - all while raising vital funds for families who have experienced the heartbreak of losing a baby.
Their ransoms will be set by none other than Robbie Burns, who will appear in full royal command on the day.
The brave participants are Morven Kinnear-MacLennan, Alishya Mcstay, Ami Malcolm and Lewie Watson. Each must rally their networks and secure donations to earn their freedom and claim victory for their clan.
Cora Thompson, who lost her daughter Amelia in March 2020, said: “Held in our hearts has been the greatest support to me these last few months. I never found them straight away and only reached out to them 4 years after Amelia was stillborn, thinking they wouldn't be able to help me since 4 years had passed.
“They've supported me through my grief in ways I wasn't sure was even possible, they've helped me with the guilt I've carried since Amelia died, they have been there to chat about Amelia and absolutely nothing at all, if it's what I needed, to just get through the day, they've offered a safe and friendly person to talk to.
“I couldn't do things now without Held In Our Hearts, having someone to talk to about your baby is the greatest feeling in the world, knowing you have some dedicated time to talk about them and only them if you need is amazing grief support.”
Nicola Welsh, CEO of Held In Our Hearts, said: “Losing a baby is devastating. We want to make sure no one in Scotland is alone after loss. Our services are needed more than ever, but funding is harder than ever to secure.
“Freedom of the Clans is a creative and powerful way to raise money and awareness. We’re so grateful to everyone taking part. Their efforts will help us build a more compassionate Scotland for grieving families.”
With kilts, courage, and fierce clan pride, Freedom of the Clans is set to be a battle for the ages — and a powerful show of support for families facing unimaginable loss across Scotland.
To donate, visit www.justgiving.com/campaign/freedomoftheclansinverness.
