A Perth woman is to swim a trecherous stretch of water for charity.
Susie Johnston will cross the Gulf of Corryvreckan – the narrow strait between the islands of Jura and Scarba off the west coast of Scotland – to raise funds for Parkinson’s UK.
Susie was inspired to take up the fundraising challenge after one of her closest and dearest friends – Diane Hastings, wife of former Scotland rugby captain Gavin – was diagnosed with Parkinson’s at the age of 39.
Susie said: “Diane has been fantastically brave in dealing with her Parkinson’s and I wanted to do something to show my support.
“Parkinson’s UK is at the forefront of research into finding better treatments and a cure. This swim is unlike anything I’ve ever tried before. It’ll be scary but I hope it’ll be fun too.”
Denise McNiven, Scotland fundraising manager for Parkinson’s UK, said: “We wish Susie every success with her challenge and appreciate her endeavours. As the UK’s Parkinson’s support and research charity we’re leading the work to find a cure, and we’re closer than ever. But our work is dependent on donations.
“The funds raised by Susie will allow Parkinson’s UK to continue with its vital research work to find a cure, and improve the lives of the 10,000 people living in Scotland who are affected by Parkinson’s.”
Susie takes the plunge on June 11 and wants as many people to support her as possible.
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive disease of the nervous system.