PEAK all in member Linda Riddock is working hard in the gym to raise funds for a hospice in memory of her son-in-law Liam McLaughlin, who sadly passed away in March this year after a 2 year battle with brain cancer.

Liam, originally of Tillicoultry and a former member of The PEAK along with his wife Kate, moved to Perth, Australia in December 2012 to start a new chapter of their life.

In early 2015, Liam was diagnosed with stage 4 GBM brain cancer. Liam and Kate did everything they could to try and save his life, they battled together for 2 years. Liam was strong and he fought all the way, never giving up hope.

In most ways Perth is second to none but unfortunately the palliative care is not what they were familiar with in Scotland. In Liam’s memory, Kate has taking on the admirable challenge of raising funds to build a hospice in Perth, Australia so that patients and their families can get the support they need.

In support of this Linda has taking on the challenge of completing a 1 mile swim after a one hour gym session. She will do this 3 times over 6 days including the 18th October – which would have been Liam’s 31st Birthday. In preparation, Linda has been working hard at The PEAK, supported by her Gym Instructor Jackie Govan.

Liam spent his last few months in and out of physio, hospital, counselling and hospice care which is where Kate found her ambition to open a new facility in Perth which would offer everything under one roof. Perth has not got a hospice or hospital where the families and friends of those who need care can be there enjoying normal family activities and making memories and making the most of whatever time they have left, as well as having all the care needs met of those who are in need.

Linda said: “Kate has a dream of creating a fantastic facility, one where patients can have all their needs met, one where families can visit and have fun together, a place where the atmosphere is full of hope and positivity.

Liam spent some time in a hospice before passing away and Kate simply felt that Perth is lacking a little hope in a place and time where hope is what families need.

‘This is not going to be an easy task, but my Daughter is determined and hardworking and strong willed enough to do it. This challenge is only a small push in the right direction, I want to help Kate get the project off the ground and get her ideas and dreams rolling.”

If you would like to contribute to this great cause, you can go to Linda’s Just Giving page at https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/lindariddock