Linlithgow OAP’s white water rafting

Mar 4 2010 by Marjorie Kerr, West Lothian Courier

A DAREDEVIL West Lothian pensioner hopes she will be swept away by fundraising success on her 90th birthday.

Gean Hodsdon of Linlithgow plans to go white water rafting this week to mark her big day.

And the plucky pensioner will carry out the feat in a bid to raise thousands of pounds for the charity, Blythswood Care and bring relief to hundreds of children.

Gean, a retired member of staff from Edinburgh University’s Botany Department, said she was determined to do some major fundraising for the charity after hearing about their bid to raise money for their latest project.

And she is hoping the whole county will rally round her amazing efforts to raise much-needed cash for the charity.

She told the Courier: “I used to go out to Romania to help at the Blythswood’s children’s holiday camps.

“Recently, I heard about a camp they have taken over in Moldova which is in a bad state and urgently needs a water pump to supply water.

“It costs around £5500 for this equipment so I want to make as much money as I can towards that total.

“I had originally planned to do a parachute jump, but my doctor wouldn’t let me because I have problems with my knees.

“However, when I was on a drive with a friend and saw the signs in Aberfeldy for the white water rafting, I thought ‘That’ll do’ and I signed up.”

Gean’s efforts will mean that the Moldovan camp, which provides holidays for very poor local children, will no longer require deliveries of water by tanker several times a week.

The opportunity for children to spend a week at camp in the summer, away from the tensions of city life, brings a great benefit to the youngsters.

Since Gean made regular trips to help run summer camps, she is keen to see the work progress in Moldova for the benefit of even more children.

And she says she is not nervous about the challenge which will see her face freezing rapids.

“The only thing that’s worrying me is the weather,” said Gean.

“When I saw the snow last weekend I didn’t think I would be able to get to Aberfeldy.

“But apart from that I’m not nervous at all about the white water rafting.

“Snow blocking the roads is the only thing that could stop me doing it.”

Margaret Tooth, area fundraising manager for Blysthwood Care, said Gean’s efforts are much appreciated by the charity.

And she paid tribute to her bravery.

She said: “Gean is a remarkable lady and we wish her a happy birthday on March 5.

“This money will greatly improve the facilities at the camp and we are keen to see her reach the target.”

Sponsor sheets for Gean’s feat are in all Linlithgow churches and several local shops.

It is also possible to make a donation online by clicking on www.justgiving.com/Gean-Hodsdon.