A fundraiser with a difference

A SCIAF supporter has vowed to embark on a Big Lent Walk for his sisters and brothers in poor parts the world – while he still can.

Joseph McCauley, 34, from Glasgow has supported the humanitarian charity since childhood and is taking on the Big Lent Walk for Water – despite living with a rare degenerative neurological disease which will rapidly weaken his mobility.

For many Big Lent Walk participants, the challenge of walking through Lent is an opportunity to rack up some miles and raise awareness and funds for SCIAF’s work around the world. However, Joseph’s starting point looks a little different.

He said:

“I was diagnosed in 2022 with Leigh’s disease, a progressive neurological condition – especially rare in adults. Muscle weakness and various seizures are now part of daily life. While some symptoms can be managed, the disease continues to progress. The most significant impact is on my mobility, which is steadily declining and becoming increasingly difficult to manage.

“Right now, I can walk well. I can travel. I can move independently. But I know that compared to others my age, my walking is likely to decline much earlier. Some days, even getting out of bed feels heavier than it should.

“Walking is no longer something I take for granted.”

As Joseph steps out this Lent, he reflects on his faith, and what truly matters.

“I used to rack up the miles knocking on doors in political campaigns. Now I walk for something that feels less about promises and more about people. Supporting SCIAF gives these miles meaning.

“Supporting SCIAF now feels different from when I was a child. Back then, it was about encouragement and learning to give. Now it is about gratitude; about using what I have while I have it – turning faith into action when I am more aware than ever that time and movement are gifts.

“I am proud that my faith shapes this choice. Faith in action is something beautiful. It is a belief that moves beyond words; love that does something practical.”

Joseph, and all the other Big Lent Walkers are walking to raise awareness and funds for SCIAF’s WEE BOX Appeal.