Aileen's story
Local fundraiser Aileen Gillies has proudly donated an incredible £20,000 to the Macmillan Unit at Mid Argyll Hospital and Integrated Care Centre, surpassing the personal annual fundraising target she set in memory of her mum.
(Photo left to right: Anne McGlynn, pharmacy team; Aileen Stewart Gillies; Garrick McCann, Senior Staff Nurse; Emma Kemp, Senior Charge Nurse; Gillian Meikle, Receptionist; Kirsteen Houston, Health Care Assistant for A&E)
Aileen’s motivation is deeply personal. She explained: "After my Mum passed away in 2017, I always knew I wanted to raise some money for the Macmillan Unit in Mid Argyll Hospital. Colette Morgan, the Macmillan nurse and the other nurses had played such a huge role in my Mum’s care the last 6 months of her life."
What began as a lockdown idea in 2020 soon became a remarkable community effort. Aileen created and sold a fundraising calendar in support of the Unit, hoping it might bring in £500. By the end of that first year, she had raised more than £5,000. Inspired by the generosity of people across Mid Argyll and beyond, Aileen continued to grow her efforts each year. She expanded into craft fairs, launched a website, and attended events in the region. Each new activity helped her reach another milestone, culminating in the 2025 calendar. Aileen is delighted that her total fundraising now stands at £20,000. She said:
"I am delighted that the Unit is going to purchase a new vein finder with some of the money raised. My journey to this point, I will always see as a positive of COVID19. It’s now time for a new challenge on this journey. I wish the Macmillan Unit well for the future, continuing to offer treatment and services to the local community. I would also like to thank the staff for meeting me for the presentation. It was lovely to present to two nurses who cared for Mum."
Her fundraising will directly support patient care in the Macmillan Unit, helping to enhance equipment and services available locally. Catriona Watt, Manager of Mid Argyll Community Hospital and Integrated Care Centre, shared her appreciation:
"On behalf of the hospital, our staff and patients, I want to extend our sincere gratitude to Aileen for her exceptional thoughtfulness, dedication and generosity. Her fundraising initiatives help to improve cancer treatment and hospital services for many patients and their loved ones."
Catherine Myles, Charity Lead Officer at NHS Highland Charity, said:
"Aileen’s dedication is truly inspiring. Transforming personal loss into something that will help so many others is an extraordinary act of kindness. Her fundraising has made a real and lasting difference for patients, families and staff receiving cancer care. We are incredibly grateful for her commitment and the support shown by the local community."