Care UK mother and daughter conquer 96-mile Highlands hike for Parkinson's UK

A mother and daughter from a Care UK care home laced up their walking boots and trekked almost 100 miles across the Scottish Highlands to raise thousands of pounds for Parkinson's UK.

Karen Scott-Angell, a Charge Nurse at Care UK's Beechwood Park care home, and her daughter, Sian, a Care Assistant at the home, completed the iconic West Highland Way alongside Sian's fiancé Daniel, raising £1,630 for the charity. Thanks to Care UK's Matched Funding scheme, the total has risen to £2,630. 

The seven day challenge saw the trio walking 96 miles from Milngavie to Fort William, tackling steep mountain paths, slippery military roads, rocky terrain and torrential rain.

The family chose to support Parkinson's UK because the condition has had a significant impact on their lives. Sian's father and Karen’s husband lives with Parkinson's, while Daniel's grandfather, who had previously completed the West Highland Way himself, was also affected by the condition. 

Reflecting on the challenge, Karen said: "I thought I was prepared for the distance, but I quickly realised there's a big difference between walking and hiking. Some parts were so challenging it could take an hour to cover just a mile." 

Along the route, the group climbed famous sections including Conic Hill and the Devil's Staircase, crossed rivers and muddy mountain tracks, and battled through relentless rain on the final day.

Despite the difficult conditions, the walkers say the breathtaking scenery made every step worthwhile.

Sian said: "The whole experience was amazing. Seeing the Scottish landscape from the tops of the hills was incredible. We met people from all over the world and there was such a sense of achievement when we reached the end." 

The fundraising effort was boosted further by Care UK's Matched Funding scheme, which supports colleagues by matching up to £1,000 raised for UK-registered charities. 

Speaking about the support they received, the pair added: "Knowing people had donated and believed in us kept us going. When you know people have put their faith in you and given money to such an important cause, you're determined to finish." 

While the challenge tested the family physically, it also brought them closer together. Although mother and daughter both work at Beechwood, Karen works nights while Sian works day shifts, making the week-long trek a unique opportunity to spend time together while supporting a cause close to their hearts.

Encouraging other colleagues to get involved in fundraising, Karen said: "Just do it. Raising money is brilliant, but it's also about what you achieve personally. Completing something that pushes you out of your comfort zone is an incredible feeling."

Inspired by Karen and Sian's fundraising efforts? Care UK is always looking for caring, dedicated people who want to make a difference. To find out more about career opportunities near you, visit www.careuk.com/careers.