Family Fundraising Event Raises a Staggering £21,000

A Glasgow family has raised more than £21,000 for Spina Bifida Hydrocephalus Scotland, in memory of their brother who had spina bifida.

Michael McGill (pictured below), would have been 50 years old on 10 February, but sadly passed away last April.

To celebrate his life, Michael’s brother, Paul McGill, organised an event at Glencairn Social Club, which was attended by more than 300 people, including close friends, family members and people from the local community.

As well as paying tribute to Michael, the family raised funds for SBH Scotland, an organisation providing personalised support to children, young people and their families affected by the lifelong conditions of spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus.

With the support of a number of local businesses, the McGill family held a silent auction and raffle, where one lucky attendee won a round trip to New York and another picked up a signed Celtic football shirt.

Paul said: “Michael’s life was full of love, joy and laughter, and I know he would have had a ball at his 50^th birthday party. It was a really special evening, and to have all his friends and family together would have put a big smile on his face.

“While Michael was born with spina bifida, he remained very independent and mobile. With a big family support network, he didn’t require the services of SBH Scotland but was aware of the great work the organisation carried out in the community.

“To honour his memory, we’ve made it a family mission to raise as much as possible for the charity. Last year we were able to donate £6,000 bringing the total amount raised so far to £21,600. But we’re not stopping there - some of the family will be doing the SBH Scotland Skydive this summer.”

Deborah Roe, fundraising director at SBH Scotland, said: “By all accounts Michael was a kind-hearted, fun-loving and inspirational individual, who proved every day that spina bifida doesn’t need to stop you living a full and happy life.

“For his family to take on so many ventures to help others affected by the conditions is incredible, and I would like to thank them for what they have done for our organisation.”

To donate to the McGill family fundraising efforts please visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/paul-mcgill4

Find out more about supporting SBH Scotland

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