Bannatyne Health Club Ayr member takes on 23-mile Kiltwalk challenge for family affected by Huntington’s disease

Ayr woman takes on 23-mile Kiltwalk in support of families affected by Huntington’s disease

A member of Bannatyne Health Club Ayr is preparing to take on a demanding 23-mile Kiltwalk challenge later this month to raise funds and awareness for a cause that has had a profound impact on her family.

Natalie Carrie, who lives in Ayr and works as an administrator at Grange Academy, will take part in the Mighty Stride at the Glasgow Kiltwalk on Sunday, April 26. The route will see walkers set off from Glasgow Green before making their way through the city and surrounding areas, finishing in Balloch at Loch Lomond.

Natalie is fundraising for the Scottish Huntington’s Association, a charity that is particularly close to her heart. Her gran was diagnosed with Huntington’s disease and has since passed away, while both her mum and aunt are currently living with the condition.

Huntington’s disease is a hereditary illness that damages nerve cells in the brain, affecting movement, thinking and behaviour. As well as the impact on those diagnosed, it can place huge emotional and practical pressures on families.

Natalie said she hopes the challenge will not only raise money but also help people better understand the reality of living with the condition.

She said: “I’m doing it to raise awareness as much as anything. It’s a disease that not many people really understand, and when my gran was first diagnosed, hardly anyone knew what it was. My mum and my aunt both have it, so this is very personal. It’s about helping people understand what families are going through and why support matters.

“The Scottish Huntington’s Association has been amazing for us. They provided a short break for my mum, which meant she could get away and enjoy some normal time, and that meant a lot to all of us.

“That’s a big part of why I’m doing this, to give something back and help other families get that same support. I also wanted to challenge myself and focus on my fitness again. I’ve been back training since the start of the year, doing lots of incline walking and time on the StairMaster, which I never thought I’d say I’d enjoy, but it’s all helped me get ready for this.”

Natalie has been training for the challenge at Bannatyne Health Club Ayr, where she has been supported by General Manager Craig Pilgrim, who is also her uncle.

Craig said: “We’re incredibly proud of Natalie. Taking on the Mighty Stride is no small feat, and she’s doing it for a cause that is very close to her and our family.

“She’s put in a huge amount of effort with her training at the club, and everyone here is right behind her. It’s also helping shine a light on a condition that many people still don’t fully understand.”

Natalie is now hoping to raise as much as possible through her JustGiving page, while also encouraging more people to learn about Huntington’s disease and the work being carried out by the Scottish Huntington’s Association.