09:00 - 6 June 2003
Scott MacNab
The Press and Journal
A Westhill multiple sclerosis sufferer is hoping to raise more than
£1,000 for the city's only dedicated treatment centre for the condition.
Deirdrie Hunter is raising the cash through a sponsored parachute jump
later this month.
The brave 38-year-old's condition prevents her from undertaking the jump on her own. Instead, she will do a "tandem" jump with her instructor.
The cash will go towards the Grampian Friends of Action and Research on Multiple Sclerosis (Arms) therapy centre in Dyce.
She said: "I wanted to do something to raise money for the centre. I can't do a swim or a walk or a run, but this is something I can do, and the centre has been such a part of my life since I was diagnosed in 1999."
The centre, which celebrated its 20th anniversary earlier this year, provides access to hyperbaric oxygen, physiotherapy and reflexology for MS sufferers.
Mrs Hunter added: "It needs £72,000 a year to run and doesn't receive any funding. It's all done through donations, sponsorship and fundraising."
She has raised just £800 so far but hopes to collect between £1,000
to £1,500. Anyone interested in making a donation can call the centre
on 01224 771105.
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