A SAUCHIE mother, who lost her daughter to a chronic illness, is ready to take on a sponsored walk to raise money and awareness for charity.

Pauline Wilson and friend Linda Murray are gearing up to complete the West Highland Way later in March raising funds for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust in memory of her daughter Gillian Somerville.

Gillian was born with the life-limiting genetic disorder, which ended her life at the age of just 26.

Pauline, who hopes to complete the trail in five days said that despite her illness, Gillian never gave up on life.

She said: “She had a normal childhood, she was in Sauchie Brownies and went to Craigbank Primary. She was in Murray School of Dance and performed in the Town Hall.

“She became unwell when she went to Lornshill [Academy], it affected her more severely. She was really, really bright, but she had a lot of time off. She still went to Forth Valley College and got an HNC in Art and Design.” According to Linda, Gillian was a real inspiration. Pauline added: “She never gave up, even when she was really ill and she was on a [mobility] scooter and had oxygen, she went and did her European driver’s license on the computer. She also worked at a charity shop trying to help others.

“She was really creative and when she couldn’t get out she made birthday cards and jewellery.” Gillian was on a transplant list, but unfortunately passed away in 2007.

Pauline and Linda have already collected £100 from family members, but they are hoping to give even more to aid research. They will be setting out on 26 March and hope to finish before April.

To sponsor their walk and donate to Cystic Fibrosis Trust visit justgiving.com/pauline-wilson5/.