From Invergordon grandad's front door to Ross County stadium in Dingwall, 'Staggie Stroll' makes strides for charity
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THE positive attitude to life of a Ross County-daft Easter Ross man who has lived with a devastating diagnosis for almost 40 years has inspired a heart-warming tribute by his grandson.
Alasdair MacKenzie (66) was 28 when he was diagnosed with progressive MS and wheelchair-bound by the time he was 40.
The former Invergordon aluminium smelter worker held down his job at the plant until the day it closed, despite his deteriorating condition.
Despite the setback, his positive outlook on life has inspired a string of fundraisers to benefit research into the condition by the MS Society Scotland.
Mr MacKenzie's grandson Logan Taylor (9) has previously stepped out on the Kiltwalk Wee Wander to help the cause – because he was ruled too young for the 14-mile Big Stroll.
Undeterred, he and mum Jeanette have now come up with their own fundraiser set to score with fellow Ross County supporters.
Their 13.9-mile Staggie Stroll planned for April 27 will start at Mr MacKenzie's doorstep and end at the Global Energy Stadium in Dingwall in time for the club's last home game of the season – which could yet prove to be a championship-decider.
Mrs Taylor said: "Dad's positive attitude and outlook on life are truly inspiring and this is what spurs us onto embark on our various fundraising efforts. Towards the end of last year he spent many weeks in hospital due to complications of his MS. Thanks to the great efforts of all the amazing staff on Ward 6C at Raigmore, we are so lucky to have Dad back home with Mum, Barbara, in Invergordon, where they stay in a wonderful adapted Margaret Blackwood house."
The couple get help from carers from Highland Healthcare. Mrs MacKenzie (66) is hoping to join Logan and her daughter on the Staggie Stroll, making it a real family affair.
Mrs Taylor added: "The Ross County connection goes a long way back in our family as my late Grandad Alex MacKenzie would attend all home games until he reached his 80s! Dad supports Ross County from home. My two sons and I attend matches as regularly as we can as we reside in Aberdeen, where I moved after leaving Invergordon Academy."
Her sons Logan and Aiden have grown up huge Ross County fans, both enjoying the opportunity of being mascots.
Logan and Jeanette were at the club's Irn-Bru cup triumph against Connah's Quay Nomads.
Their fundraising page says: "Please help us raise as much money as possible to help find a cure for this cruel disease."
To support their effort, see https://tinyurl.com/y6p9nrvo
