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Ayr Central supports Scottish Spina Bifida Association
30.11.06
This year Ayr Central’s nominated charity is the Scottish Spina Bifida Association. Spina bifida and hydrocephalus affects the lives of 3000 people in Scotland every year and the money raised will help provide a range of training, recreational and support services for families affected. The shopping centre aims to raise money through a series of forthcoming events for the charity.
In summer Ayr Central organised a Grand Balloon launch in aid of the charity and raised thousands of pounds when 1000 helium balloons were released into the air. Attached to the balloons were the names of the local residents and Duncan Spiers of Ayrshire won a hot air balloon ride for the effort his balloon made, it was found near Fort William! One person benefiting from this Ayr Central fund raising activity is 14-year-old Jed Boden, who lives in Ayrshire and is affected by spina bifida.
Jed’s mother, Jacqueline explains how the Scottish Spina Bifida Association has changed the family’s lives,
“They are there whenever I need advice and support; easy to talk to and always available. I’m very grateful to them.”
Gordon Ramsay, chef and Patron of the Scottish Spina Bifida Association said:
“When a child is first diagnosed it is a very emotional and stressful time for family members. SSBA provides families with desperately needed advice and support to help them come to terms with the initial situation that faces them and to learn how to manage in years ahead. Such support will also be required throughout the child’s life, often into adulthood to ensure that all the specialised needs of the individual are met. I am delighted that Ayr Central is working with me to support this charity.”

