Dumfries and Galloway Friends Illuminate Criffel for a Heartfelt Cause
Two friends from Dumfries and Galloway, Katy Brown and Lorna Hellam, are embarking on a charitable journey known as 12 Big Things throughout 2025 to raise funds and awareness for organisations supporting individuals struggling with thoughts of suicide and families affected by suicide. Their inaugural challenge, Lighting Up Criffel, is scheduled for Saturday, February 1, where they are urging participants to bring torches and join in the event.
The inspiration behind their mission stems from personal losses experienced recently, motivating them to take action and make a meaningful difference. Katy expressed her desire to commemorate a dear childhood friend through this initiative. Both Katy and Lorna have a history of using physical activities like running to support causes close to their hearts, and this time, they are focusing on suicide prevention and support for affected families.
The 12 Big Things campaign aims to support the charities Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) and Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide (SoBS) by organising monthly challenges throughout the year. The duo plans to light up various hills as part of their efforts, commencing with Criffel and involving additional locations in the future.
Scheduled for February 1, the Lighting Up Criffel event had to be rescheduled from January 24 due to weather conditions. Participants are encouraged to gather at the car park at 6pm, where a piper will lead the way up the hill. A moment of silence with torches extinguished is planned for 7pm, followed by a cutoff time of 7.30pm for reaching the summit. Parking is available, with carpooling recommended for attendees.
To confirm participation or find more details about Lighting Up Criffel, interested individuals can visit the event’s Facebook page. Donations and additional information can be accessed through the fundraising page set up for the 12 Big Things initiative.
In conclusion, the story of Katy Brown and Lorna Hellam’s charitable endeavour to illuminate Criffel symbolises the power of friendship, resilience, and community spirit in tackling sensitive issues such as suicide prevention and bereavement support. Their commitment to honouring loved ones and making a positive impact serves as an inspiration for others to get involved in meaningful causes and bring hope to those in need.