A Fife mum in the midst of a cancer battle and her 10-year-old daughter have pledged to help other families fighting the disease by abseiling one of Dundee’s tallest buildings.
Vikki Wilson, of Cupar, was inspired to take on the lofty endeavour after adventure-loving daughter Alysson spotted a poster advertising the Marie Curie Daredevil Challenge at her climbing centre in Dundee.
While the prospect of dropping 140 feet down the side of Dundee University’s Tower Building might weaken the knees of grown men, the single mother and daughter team see the event as a milestone to mark a much greater challenge they have endured together Vikki’s journey back to health.
“We’re very much looking forward to doing this together,” said Vikki (39). “It was Alysson’s idea from the start and she is so excited about it.
“It’s our way of giving something back for the excellent care I’ve received from day one and for the all the families out there that Marie Curie help.”
Vikki, a former administrator, was diagnosed with cervical cancer in July. She has endured weeks of chemotherapy and radiotherapy and is awaiting the results of her latest MRI scan which will determine the next step in her battle back to health.
Throughout her treatment, her daughter has been a pillar of strength and a source of pride.
Despite her ill health, Vikki has ensured her daughter’s weekly trips to Avertical World have continued uninterrupted and has watched her daughter blossom in the sport Alysson is about to complete level two of the National Indoor Climbing Achievement Scheme.
Initially it was thought that, due to Alysson’s age, only Vikki would be allowed to complete the challenge but event specialist Freespirits soon recognised Alysson’s experience and determination.
Organiser Petra McMillan, of Carnoustie, who hopes to raise £10,000 to provide 500 hours of free nursing care to the terminally ill at home in Dundee, Angus, Fife and Perthshire, says she is delighted to have Vikki and Alysson on her team for the May 21 event.
Petra said, “Alysson is probably better placed to do this challenge than almost anyone else we have but thanks to Freespirits we intend to make this a very special day for her and her mum.
“They are both very brave and selfless in thinking of other families at this time and I find that utterly humbling.”
She added, “We still have some spaces left so I hope Courier readers will take heart and join us. All the funds we raise stay locally to help families who have a loved one who wants to end their life at home.”
Alysson said, “It’s really fun. I feel quite excited, I’ve got my own climbing gear too. It’s great that mum will be doing it at the same time.”
Vikki greatly admires the work Marie Curie does and hopes to help provide comfort and support to her fellow cancer patients and their families.
The pair are in the midst of fund-raising, with a non-uniform day at Alysson’s school, Dunbog Primary School, and they hope family and friends will support them too.To take part in the abseil email petramcmillan@aol.com or visit www.justgiving.com/Petra-McMillan to donate.