Residents at a Perthshire care home will today help “launch” a trans-Atlantic rowing challenge.
Former Glenshee ski instructor Elaine Hopley has signed-up for December’s daunting 3000-mile Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge, from La Gomera in the Canaries to the Caribbean island of Antigua.
The adventurer’s chosen charity, Alzheimer Scotland, is emblazoned on the stern of her sleek R20 Ocean Rowing Boat, in memory of her late mother Janice, who was cared for at the family home in Highland Perthshire for many years.
And Elaine’s determined bid to raise £70,000 to complete the race and set a new record time for a female participant captured the imagination of Big County businessman John Bryden, whose Moncreiffe Care Home features among generous sponsors backing the challenge.
To mark National Care Home Day, to the delight of residents, Elaine and her specially kitted out seven-metre long boat will make an appearance at the Bridge of Earn home’s annual open day this afternoon.
Elaine (44), who now lives in Dunblane, will unveil details of her attempt to become the first female to row solo across the Atlantic for more than a decade.
But yesterday she revealed that memories of her late mother Janice will drive her on when the going gets tough.
“My mum was diagnosed with dementia at the age of 55, just four years after our dad John died in his early fifties,” she said.
“We both lived with it for the next 17 years until her death.
“There was no track record in the family. It is a cruel condition which can affect anyone, at any age.
“We lived in Enochdhu and the nearest town was Pitlochry. Mum would go to a day centre connected to the Church of Scotland and she loved that.
“I was teaching skiing over the winter and working in a friend’s mountain bike shop during the summer.
“But I didn’t work for four years. I wanted to make the most of the time we had left together, while she could still get about, walk and communicate.
“Mum was in bed for the last three years of her life. That was just awful. So the years we had together were really precious. Looking back, I am so glad I took time out to be with her.
“That is the reason why I want to support Alzheimer Scotland and help them get the message out there. That’s a big driving force for me.
“It is not just a disease which afflicts the elderly and people still need to be educated.
“That’s why it is great to have the Moncrieffe Care Home and other sponsors backing me. Knowing I have so many supporters behind me will spur me on out on the water.”
Mr Bryden has been impressed with Elaine’s commitment to the record bid and fundraising campaign for Alzheimer Scotland.
He said: “Elaine is one very determined lady and we are proud to support her challenge. Alzheimer Scotland is a wonderful charity and one which is close to her heart.
“She will be the only solo woman taking part in this year’s race, which tests the physical and mental strength of all the participants.
“We are delighted to welcome Elaine and her boat to Moncreiffe Care Home’s open day. I know residents are keen to learn more about the Talisker Atlantic Challenge.”
Elaine, who has organised an “It’s a Knock-out” style family fun day at Bridge of Allan’s Strathallan Games Park on July 24, plans to set-up a Just Giving page and 100% of donations will support the work of Alzheimer Scotland when she arrives at the race start line in La Gomera’s San Sebastian.
