WATCH: Harry Gow bakes Highland Hospice a cake to help celebrate 35 years of care for those with life-shortening illnesses
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It was a slice of goodwill to savour a landmark in the history of a unique and much-loved Highland institution.
Harry Gow bakers donated a celebratory cake to mark today’s 35th anniversary of Highland Hospice and the admission of its first patient.
The hospice idea was hatched by two determined individuals, Flora MacKay and Cecilia Bottomley, nurses at the old Culduthel Hospital in Inverness, who saw a need for better care of those with life-shortening illness.
In spring 1983, the pair formed the committee that would drive forward their vision, realised on November 17, 1987 when the first patient entered the day hospice and, a year later, the purpose-built inpatient unit.
Over the next three decades, the generosity of the Highland public saw the hospice go from strength to strength.
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Highland Hospice’s head of development Andrew Leaver marked the occasion by taking time to praise the many hospice volunteers, fundraisers and donors down the years for their generosity.
“Highland Hospice has an incredible history,” Mr Leaver said.
“Our support goes back much further than 35 years, to 1983, when the Highland community rallied around to fundraise for a hospice for the Highlands.
“We couldn’t have continued to provide and expand upon our amazing care without the help of so many generous supporters over the years.
“We are so grateful to everyone who has made a donation, done some fundraising or given us their time as volunteers.
“And we also give huge thanks to Harry Gow bakers for providing us with this gorgeous cake to mark the occasion!”
David Gow, director of Harry Gow, said: “Highland Hospice provides vital support to people in the Highlands at their greatest time of need.
"It’s incredible to see the charity growing from strength to strength as it celebrates its 35th birthday.
“We have supported Highland Hospice for a number of years, and look forward to doing so for many more to come.
"We hope everyone at the Hospice is able to take some time to reflect on the way they positively impact people's lives – and, of course, to enjoy a celebratory slice of cake!”
