Aileen Gillies has proudly donated £20,500 to the Macmillan Unit at Mid Argyll Hospital and Integrated Care Centre, surpassing a personal annual fundraising target set in memory of her Mum.
Speaking about her motivation, she said: “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.”
The fundraising journey began during lockdown in 2020, when Aileen decided to create and sell a fundraising calendar in support of the Mid Argyll Macmillan unit. She thought at the time she would be lucky to raise £500. By the end of 2020-21 year that saw so many changes for everyone, she had raised over £5,000.
Encouraged by the incredible support from the local community, the fundraising efforts continued to grow year on year. She expanded her activities by selling at craft fairs, launching a website, and attending events, including The Gather in Target and Made in Argyll in Oban. Each year brought a new fundraising milestone.
Each year, Aileen has increased her fundraising target. 2025’s calendar was a hit and raised £20,000. Aileen is now delighted to have donated a total of £ 20,500.00.
Reflecting on the experience, she added: "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.”
The funds raised will directly support patient care within the Macmillan unit, helping to enhance services and equipment available locally. The purchase of a new vein finder will support clinical teams and improve the experience of patients undergoing treatment.
Catriona Watt, the Manager of Mid Argyll Hospital and Integrated Care Centre, expressed: “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.”