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Patons Insurance team takes on Kiltwalk Challenge for mental health support
Staff from Patons Insurance are set to participate in the upcoming Kiltwalk event, aiming to raise funds for Chris’s House, a mental health crisis centre in Wishaw.
The group, comprising five colleagues from Glasgow and one family member, is gearing up for two challenging walks on 28 April.
Cheryl Rennie, alongside her husband Allan, and colleague Kevin Baird, are preparing for the 14-mile trek from Clydebank to Balloch, known as the Big Stroll. Meanwhile, Brian McLaughlan, Chelsea Adams, and Nicola Karanikki will face the 24-mile Mighty Stride from Glasgow to Balloch.
The team are said to be motivated not only to support the vital services provided by Chris’s House but also to maintain their fitness. In anticipation of the event, members have adopted diverse training methods to ensure they are prepared. Brian McLaughlan has incorporated walking to work into his routine and visits the gym, while Cheryl has engaged in regular long walks and a burlesque fitness class. Allan contributes by staying active around the home. Kiltwalk regular, Nikki, is maintaining her usual walking regimen and considering additional gym sessions to build stamina.
Chelsea Adams has committed to daily walks and gym visits, and Kevin Baird is achieving 15,000 steps daily, taking a break only on Saturdays.
The Kiltwalk, known as Scotland’s largest mass-participation walking event, has attracted over 145,000 participants since 2016. Together with The Hunter Foundation, these walkers have raised £42.5 million for over 3,330 Scottish charities. As the event nears, the Patons Insurance team is eager to tackle the challenge and contribute to the cause, proving their commitment to community and personal health.
Nikki said: “I have done the Mighty Stride three times. It is not easy, but all worth it for a great cause, and can’t wait to do it again!”
Cheryl added: “I am both scared and excited as I don’t walk anywhere, but this charity is very close to my own heart, so I am determined to raise lots of money and awareness, and challenge myself, as this is so out-with my comfort zone i.e. the couch!”
Chelsea concluded: “I’m taking part because I understand how hard and upsetting it can be living with someone or dealing with your own mental health. I feel it is important that there is more recognition and help for people surrounding this matter.
“The impact this can have on individuals is challenging, so the more help that can be offered could make a bigger impact on someone struggling with this.
“I am looking forward to the challenge of the walk.”
To sponsor the team head over to their JustGiving page.
