Big hearted Buddies help local charity smash funding target.

Paisley’s national charity, the Scottish Huntington’s Association (SHA), has smashed the fundraising target it set to celebrate its Silver Jubilee year.

Back in January SHA aimed to raise an extra £25,000 to help pay for new educational resources to explain what Huntington’s disease (HD) is and the impact it can have on people’s lives. But with just two thirds of the year gone they have just broken through the £60,000 barrier.

scottish huntingtons association

HD is a hereditary degenerative brain condition that cause involuntary movements, changes to thinking processes and mental health issues. It develops from aged 33 onwards and in its latter stages those affected will need 24 hour care. Children of those diagnosed also have a 50% chance of developing the condition. There is no cure.

“We are fantastically indebted to the generosity of local people, we’ve done a lot to build the profile of the charity in our Renfrewshire base this year and have been rewarded for our efforts,” said chief executive, John Eden.

The Scottish Huntington’s Association is the only charity in the country that supports families living with the disease.

“The money was originally going to be spent on material to help people understand what HD is and how it affects not just those diagnosed, but their extended family. We will now be able to do so much more, thanks to the generosity of people across the country. But I want to particularly thank local people for their on-going support it has been fantastic and hope it continues long after our 25th anniversary celebrations end,” added John.

HD affects about 1100 people across Scotland with a further 5000 potentially at risk.

Individual donations to the charity are more than double the amount raised last year with three months still to go.

If you would like to help go to www.hdscotland.org.

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Founder of Paisley.org.uk in 1998 and constantly strives to change peoples attitudes to the town, Brian is a self described Paisley Digital Champion who promotes Paisley via any means necessary. You can also follow me on X