Caithness Boxing Club’s story
Fighting through in memory of Megan.
In November 2025, members of Caithness Boxing Club took on an extraordinary challenge in memory of someone who meant the world to them. Their goal was to raise £2,500 for the Highland Critical Care Unit. They exceeded that target, raising an incredible £2,880.
On 27 April 2024, the club lost one of its most valued members, Megan Mackay. Her passing left a deep impact on every person who trained beside her. Megan was described as dedicated, disciplined and determined. She was fierce in the ring, yet known for her kindness and spirit. Even now, she is spoken about at every training session and missed every single day.
During her illness, Megan received specialist care at the Raigmore Critical Care Unit. The club never forgot the compassion shown to Megan and to everyone close to her. Wanting to honour her memory, they chose to raise funds to help support the unit that cared for her with such kindness.
Several members set themselves the demanding task of completing 400 two-minute rounds each. It is a physically intense challenge, but the club has approached it with determination and with Megan’s memory inspiring every round.
Samantha, Secretary of Caithness Boxing Club, shared what motivated them to support NHS Highland:
“As a club, we were inspired to raise money for Raigmore CCU as a token of our appreciation for the care, kindness and compassion shown to one of our dear members, Megan Mackay, and her family and friends when we she became ill last April and very sadly passed away.”
Samantha also spoke about why supporting local healthcare matters so much to everyone at the club:
“When Megan became unwell, her family and friends unfortunately experienced first hand what it felt like to wait for the news of a loved one's progress during a devastating time. This is why we would like the money raised to help with the upkeep or provide further comforts in the waiting areas or rooms where people, often unexpectedly, find themselves spending great deals of time.”
“We would encourage anybody to consider fundraising for the NHS Highland charity. Unfortunately none of us know when we might find ourselves in a situation where these services become essential.”
The team within Critical Care have expressed deep gratitude for the club’s efforts and for the donation made in Megan’s memory. Gerry Dewhurst, Clinical Lead Nurse for the department, said:
“The whole team in Critical Care are very grateful for this kind and generous donation from Megan's family and friends. We are very conscious that it is the hardest of times for family and friends who have a loved one in our care and we try our best to make this as comfortable as possible for them in the family rooms we have in the department. Small comforts that we know from feedback make a difference when faced with long periods away from home and waiting for news. This gift will make such a difference to enabling us to do that, thank you.”
Through sweat, strength and steady commitment, Caithness Boxing Club is honouring Megan in a way that reflects her spirit. Their efforts will help ensure that families facing the hardest moments of their lives can find comfort and support while their loved ones receive critical care. Megan’s legacy continues to inspire everyone who steps into the gym, and now her memory will make a difference for many others across the Highlands.
