A new year calls for a new fundraising challenge

Is your New Year’s resolution to fundraise for a cause close to your heart?

We chat to Eva and her husband, Ryan, who are doing dry January in memory of their grandparents and to help raise money for older people across Scotland.

Why are you fundraising for Age Scotland?

We both believe the work you guys do is absolutely essential for the elderly community. My nana became extremely lonely after the loss of my papa, and I really wish we knew about Age Scotland before she recently passed away as she would have really benefited from your services. So, we are raising money to help raise awareness of the different services you offer to help older people.

What is your most cherished memory of your grandparents?

My most cherished memory of my grandparents was when I had sleepovers at their house, and we would play dominos together. My papa and I used to pretend we were spies and would have secret meetings to plan our missions while my Nana made our dinner. Ryan’s most cherished memory would be when his grandad taught him how to play football at the park across from their house. His grandma was also the one making the dinner and his favourite was her mince and tatties.

My husband Ryan was mainly brought up by his grandparents — they put a lot of time and effort into making him the man he is today. I know the time he spent with them was so sacred and he would do anything to be able to spend some time with them again. I spent a lot of time with my grandparents, and I was so lucky to have had my nana living in the flat down below me for the short time she was there. It allowed our relationship to mature in a lot of ways and allowed us to spend more time together — I learnt so much about her and her life in the extra time we got together and I’m glad she felt less lonely when she moved closer to us.

Tell us about your fundraising challenge this January?

We are doing dry January to raise money for older people. In Scotland there is a big drinking culture so 9 out of 10 times if you are planning on meeting friends etc it’s in the pub. Usually there’s a lot of celebrations in January so it will put our self-restraint to the test and help others at the same time!

Sponsor Eva and Ryan here.