Elgin grandad’s country music festival raises four-figure charity sum
An Elgin grandad who survived a stroke has raised a four-figure sum for charity.
Mike Petrie’s Country Music Festival at the Kingsmills Hotel in Inverness raised £1145 for Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland (CHSS).
The grandad-of-seven was inspired by CHSS’s own Paula Leask, who herself had a stroke at the age of 29, to start his journey to recovery and raise funds.
Mike Petrie said: “My youngest daughter read Paula’s story and wanted me to get in contact with her.
“I’ve been so impressed with Paula’s work and dedication that I wanted to do something to support her work.
“I enjoy all the groups Paula organises and I’m an active member helping other people.”
Paula collapsed at a friend’s wedding at the age of just 29 and doctors had no idea if she would be able to walk or talk again.
After making a remarkable recovery she joined CHSS to help other survivors in their journey after a stroke by becoming a community support co-ordinator.
Working closely with people like Mike, Paula has helped people manage their conditions and live fuller lives.
Paula’s story, and help as he made his recovery, is what inspired Mike into putting on a country music fundraiser with a prize draw which raised £1145.
Mike added: “Paula has made a huge difference in my recovery.
“I feel strongly about the community support CHSS offers. I really appreciate the support that is available locally.
“I have a feeling of belonging now through the groups and I’ve made new friends and met new people.
“Through this journey I have learnt to recycle the negative emotions into something positive.”
Anne Magarin, community, events and corporate fundraiser for CHSS, said: “We want to thank Mike for his efforts in helping raise money for Scotland’s largest health charity.
“The effort people like Mike put into these fundraisers helps us to support the one-in-five people across the country who are living with chest, heart and stroke conditions and long-Covid to live their lives to the full.”
To find out more about fundraising for Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland visit www.chss.org.uk/supportus/fundraise-for-us/
If you’re living with the effects of a chest, heart or stroke condition or Long Covid and looking for advice and information, please contact Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland’s Advice Line on 0808 801 0899.
You can also text NURSE to 66777 or email adviceline@chss.org.uk.
