Huntly runner smashes miles and cash target
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A woman who set out to raise £250 by running three miles a day for 100 days has smashed both her fundraising target and the distance she covered.
Jacoline Dey is raising money for the Meadows Care Home where her mum, Isy Merrit was cared for for seven years, before her death, aged 87, in November 2020.
Only a small funeral was possible, denying the family the opportunity to have a memorial collection for the home as thanks for the exceptional care and love shown to their mum.
Jacoline, (49) an experienced distance runner came up with the plan to ask people to donate online if she ran every day.
The challenge started on December 27 and ended on Monday - in the 100 days she clocked up 700 miles, averaging seven miles with her top daily tally 19 miles and her fundraising total stands at over £1300.
On day 77, Jacoline's plans were almost derailed when she smashed her finger and cut her hand in a DIY accident.
Husband, Billy, who sometimes ran with her, helped her tie the laces on her running shoes and despite the pain she continued with the challenge.
A pharmacy technician in Inverurie, Jacoline clocked up some of the miles around the town in her lunchtimes and for her final run on Monday was joined by her daughter Lindsey (24).
Running buddy, Kevin McKen joined her for a number of outings and he and his wife Carol were waiting to cheer her when she finished.
Jacoline said: "Mum was such a cheery character and always full of fun. I know her funeral would have been a big one and a collection made for the Meadows which really was not thanked as it ought to have been.
"The challenge has kept my training on track. There are so many great runs right on our doorstep - my favourite is the new path up Bahill to Greenmyres and into Gartly Moor. It was very special to have Lindsey join me for the final run.
"Mum really backed my running, she came with me when she was able then latterly, if I had been at a run I would go and see her and let her wear my medal. I couldn’t visit in the final eight months of her life and that has had a massive effect on my life. We were very close I cannot put into words how much I miss her - her smile, her laugh, her positivity and support in everything I’ve ever done.
"She was so well looked after at the Meadows - in lockdown carers have worked harder than ever to keep residents entertained. My sister, Anita and brother, Angus felt we had not been able to thank them enough so hopefully whatever I raise can show our appreciation and help them as they care for other residents."
To donate go to www.justgiving.com and search Jacoline Dey.
