Aberdeen family set to Ride the North for NESS in memory of Dad
Walter Forrest was a long-term service user until he suddenly died in May
An Aberdeen family are raising money for the North East Sensory Service (NESS) after they supported Dad, Walter Forrest, for almost 20 years.
Walter lost his sight completely at the start of the century and required special assistance to do 'normal' tasks.
In his memory, son Kevin Forrest, daughter-in-law Kelly Forrest, as well as Kelly's dad and sister, will be taking part in the grueling Ride the North challenge at the end of the month.
"The charity was a lifeline to my father-in-law, Walter, giving him valuable support, advice and a range of devices and equipment that enhanced his quality of life.", said Kelly.
“We were all devastated when we lost Walter and this will be a lovely way to remember him, while also giving back to the charity that did so much for him.
“We are keen to support NESS any way we can as we have seen first-hand the important impact that smaller, local organisations like this can have on people’s lives."
The couple, who have both ran the London Marathon in the past, have been planning to do the cycle since December, months before Walter suddenly passed away.
Kevin says that doing it in his dads memory will make the event "more special".
"We're definitely doing it in his memory, and it will make it more special.
"It will push us on as well - I can just picture him up there pushing us on, shouting 'come on!'.
"He always took me places - I've been sporty all my life.
"He would deliver my papers for me when I went and played football, he would just encourage me to do as much as possible."
The family's fundraising page can be found here.