Gordon's 'calendar boy' gives cash to clinic
A CALENDAR created by a grateful Sutherland crofter has raised more than £1000 for a north clinic where he received life-changing treatment.
Gordon Smith’s life was turned upside down some eight years ago when the rheumatoid arthritis he had suffered for some time became "crippling", threatening to end his days farming.
A master ploughman who has looked after the arable work on Kirkton Farm in Golspie for over 52 years, he is also a crofter in his own right, tending 200 sheep and 10 cows at Balnadelson near Lairg.
An intensive two-week stint of treatment at the Highland Rheumatology Unit in Dingwall, which is located next to the Ross Memorial Hospital, was to change everything.
He said: "I was in for a fortnight and I’ve never looked back. I now work 12 hours a day, seven days a week."
Determined to give something back to the unit, he came up with the idea of producing a calendar featuring his grandson, Archie Mowat, who enjoys nothing better than helping his grandad out on the croft on spare weekends. Snapping pictures on his mobile phone, he then roped in Archie’s dad, Craig Mowat, who has a print and design company in Golspie, to produce the finished product.
The Friends of the Highland Rheumatology Unit group got behind the drive with a number of outlets agreeing to sell the calendar.
It raised an impressive £1100 and Mr Smith and his grandson recently presented a cheque to the unit.
Mr Smith paid tribute to everyone who helped with the effort and all those who bought a calendar.
He said: "The calendars were a great success and have been sent all around the world. We are very touched that the project has done so well.
"We are still receiving lovely comments of support and hope we can continue to raise funds for such a valuable cause. Knowing the money is being used to purchase much needed equipment makes us feel very proud."
Unit manager Lynn Forbes said: "I was delighted at the calendar idea. The idea came from Gordon and his family — that someone could be so committed and passionate is a really nice feeling."
