A FIFE PARENT who helped found the Children’s Hospice Association Scotland (CHAS) has paid tribute to her son on what would have been his 29th birthday.

Lorraine Dickson, of Bruce Street, Dunfermline, launched the charity in 1991 with Nancy Blaik.

Both had sons with serious metabolic disorders.

However, whereas Mrs Blaik’s son Daniel is now 28, Mrs Dickson’s son Marc died just before his 16th birthday.

When Marc was living with the effects of Hunter’s syndrome, a genetic condition resulting in stunted growth, heart problems and mental deterioration, the nearest children’s hospice was Martin House in Yorkshire.

The two women set about raising money to create Scotland’s first children’s hospice.

The result was millions of pounds raised for Rachel House in Kinross, a second hospice, Robin House at Loch Lomond, and an outreach service, Rachel House at Home.

This month is the 10th anniversary of Rachel House opening its doors.

Mrs Dickson (48) said, “The Scottish public have been so generous.

“When the turf was cut for Rachel House, Marc had died by that time.

“The streets were lined with school kids.

“There was a lump in my throat but happiness as well because he started it all.

“Every shop you go into has a CHAS box on the counter and I always want to say that my son started it all up.”

Children’s hospices provide expert care and support to give children with life limiting conditions and their families a break.

Bob Tomlinson of CHAS said the two women’s efforts helped thousands of people.