A HOSPICE worker from Helensburgh is planning to set out on a gruelling trek across to help seriously ill children.
Emma Steel is in training for a 100-mile walk later this month in aid of CHAS (Children's Hospices Across Scotland).
Emma has worked at the charity's Robin House children's hospice in Balloch it first opened its doors in 2005 and is using the challenge to reminisce about her 18 years of supporting children with life-shortening conditions and their families.
She's planning to set out from CHAS's Rachel House hospice in Kinross on Sunday, July 9 - and hopes to arrive at Robin House six days later to mark the Balloch hospice's 18th birthday.
Along the way, the Helensburgh resident has also challenged herself to do 18 activities including stopping off at the Kelpies in Falkirk and taking a trip on a steam train at Bo'ness.
Throughout the walk, Emma will be accompanied by her trusty companion ‘Rambler Robin’ - a cuddly robin teddy - to help remind her of just why she has taken the task on.
The hospice worker said: “I decided to take on the walk between Rachel and Robin House, not only to raise funds for CHAS but also as an opportunity for me to take time to remember all the children and families I’ve worked with over the last 18 years.
“I’m a bit nervous, as I know it will be a tough challenge - but it’s nothing compared to the challenges faced by the incredible children Robin House and CHAS supports.
"And if I ever get tired or feel like giving up, I’ve got ‘Rambler Robin’ to help spur me on!
“Fund-raising is absolutely vital to CHAS and allows the charity to help children with life-shortening conditions and their families make the most of their time together, no matter how short.
“I'm doing this walk to remember all the children I’ve known; to honour all of the incredible families and to raise money so CHAS can continue to support others in the future.”
Emma has been employed in a number of roles at Robin House including nursing support worker and activities facilitator.
Just recently, she took on a new position as the hospice's home support lead, helping oversee a team of volunteers who offer practical support to families in their own homes.
This can include housework, supporting siblings or other ‘everyday’ tasks which can feel overwhelming when caring for a child with a life-shortening condition.
Robin House has been a 'home from home' for families facing the hardest of times imaginable.
The charity relies on donations from the public to help fund services in its two children’s hospices, their at home service and hospital presence.
You can donate to Emma’s fund-raiser and support CHAS here.
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