In a heartwarming display of festive generosity, Dumfriesshire’s Ryan and Becky Muir are once again gearing up to lead the way to Christmas spirit. The couple recently donated an impressive £15,000 to the Neonatal Unit at Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary, proceeds from last year’s Christmas Tractor and Truck Road Run event. The Muirs, along with their family, are set to organise the fourth edition of this illuminated fundraiser, scheduled for November 23.
The Christmas Illuminated Tractor and Truck Road Run will see a convoy of hundreds of illuminated tractors, lorries, and support vehicles travel from Lockerbie to Dumfries and back, shining a light on the joy of giving during the holiday season. Participants are encouraged to contribute £20 to join the convoy, with all proceeds going towards supporting the Neonatal Unit. The unit holds a special place in the Muir family’s hearts as both their daughter and niece received care there when they were born prematurely.
Despite facing personal challenges last year, including their parents’ cancer diagnoses, the Muir family remained dedicated to the cause. Tragically, Ryan’s mother, Carolyne Muir, passed away earlier this year, and this year’s road run will be dedicated to her memory. The funds raised from the event will be used to purchase vital equipment and provide training for the Neonatal Unit staff, offering support to newborns and their families during challenging times.
During a recent cheque presentation to the Neonatal Unit, Ryan and Becky Muir were informed that the £15,000 donation would be used to acquire specialist equipment for checking jaundice levels in newborns, allowing community midwives to conduct necessary assessments at home. This investment will potentially reduce hospital readmissions for babies with jaundice, enabling them to receive care within the comfort of their own homes.
Expressing their gratitude for the community’s support, Ryan Muir acknowledged the importance of giving back to the Neonatal Unit, highlighting the unit’s exceptional care for both babies and their families. Lyn Durrant, the general manager of NHS Dumfries and Galloway’s Women and Children’s Services, commended the Muirs’ fundraising efforts, emphasizing the positive impact on community midwives and hospital staff. Nick Mitchell, charity operational manager for NHS D&G Endowment Fund, recognised the couple’s remarkable commitment to supporting healthcare services.
The upcoming Christmas Illuminated Tractor and Truck Road Run on November 23 is expected to bring together a community of supporters, spreading joy and goodwill in the spirit of the season. Those interested in joining the convoy can gather at Lockerbie cattle mart from 2.30pm, with the event officially setting off at 5.30pm. Further details can be found on the Christmas Tractor and Truck Run Facebook page.