Inverness youngster locks in fundraising bonanza with handmade keyrings
A way of passing the time during a hospital stay turned into a major charity fundraiser for one Inverness youngster.
Harry Ritchie-Mackenzie, who was born with a congenital heart defect, is supported by the CHAS (Children’s Hospice Association Scotland) Home Team in the Highlands but also spent time in Aberdeen Royal Infirmary.
‘Excellent’ evaluation for SNAP Inverness
It was while he was there that he and mum Claire Munro started making keyrings together as a creative way to pass the time.
A spokesperson for CHAS said: “What began as a fun distraction continued at home and, with the encouragement of friends and family, Harry has been selling his ‘Helping Hands’ keyrings at school fayres and at Christmas events.”
So far his efforts have raised £1000, being split evenly between CHAS and SNAP (Special Needs Action Project), based in Inverness and providing a variety of services for children and young adults with additional needs.
Claire said: “We started making the keyrings almost as creative therapy for both of us.
“Harry enjoyed both making and selling them. He is quite the fundraiser at the fayres, even choosing keyrings for some people!
“Everyone was so supportive, and we’re delighted with the total raised.”
The spokesperson for CHAS added: “Huge thanks to Harry, Claire and everyone who supported this brilliant idea. You're helping us reach more children and families across the Highlands and beyond.”
Harry and his family are regularly supported by the Highlands CHAS at Home Nursing Team who provide respite, take Harry and his siblings on outings and help the family to make memories.
