Residents of a care home in Edinburgh are rowing in support of three Scottish brothers on a remarkable journey across the Pacific.
Topics covered
Residents of Chamberlain Care Home in Edinburgh are rallying around three Scottish brothers—Ewan, Jamie, and Lachlan Maclean—who are on an incredible mission to become the fastest team to row across the Pacific Ocean. Currently on day 134 of their non-stop, unsupported journey from Peru to Australia, these brothers are not just aiming for glory; they’re hoping to raise a whopping £1 million for clean water initiatives in Madagascar.
As they draw closer to their destination, the residents of the care home are getting involved, participating in rowing sessions to show their support, and even planning a bake sale and concert for the day they expect the brothers to arrive in Cairns.
Isn’t that a heartwarming way to unite for a cause?
Support from the Care Home Community
As the Maclean brothers near their goal, the residents of Chamberlain Care Home have been actively involved in rowing activities led by their physiotherapist.
Liliana Bahna, the unit manager, expressed the community’s pride in the brothers’ journey, saying, “It’s a small community here, but our hearts are very much out in the Pacific with the boys.” She fondly recalled the brothers visiting their grandmother as children, noting how their current endeavor has inspired everyone at the home. Can you imagine the pride bubbling up in that community?
One of the most passionate supporters is 95-year-old Sheila Burtles, who has taken charge of the efforts at the home. A former sensory analyst in the whisky industry, Ms. Burtles is closely connected to the brothers’ family, having worked with their father, Charles Maclean, a whisky expert known far and wide. She has been entrusted with the voyage’s log and receives daily updates from the brothers, which she carefully tracks on a world map. “To be entrusted with the ship’s log is a real honor,” she said, emphasizing just how much the community cares about the brothers’ journey. Isn’t it amazing how one person can make such a difference in a community’s morale?
Community Fundraising Initiatives
The enthusiasm for the Maclean brothers goes beyond the care home, with individuals across the nation participating in various fundraising activities. From 24-hour rowing challenges to schoolchildren running daily miles, the collective effort has generated significant support. Recently, the brothers’ uncle and cousin took to the waters, rowing 25.2 miles down the Tay River and helping to raise over £2,100. To date, the brothers have managed to raise more than £600,000 towards their £1 million target. This shows just how powerful community spirit can be!
In a heartfelt message sent from their boat, Jamie Maclean expressed gratitude for the support they’ve received. “Hearing about Chamberlain Care Home rowing along with us makes all the difference,” he shared. The emotional ties to their childhood visits to the care home fuel their resolve during the challenging days at sea. “The pictures they sent through made a very tough day much lighter,” he added, highlighting how essential community support is on their journey. How inspiring is it to see such connections across distances?
Challenges and Determination
Originally, the brothers had their sights set on Sydney, but they’ve had to reroute to Cairns due to harsh weather conditions. Yet, despite these obstacles, they remain steadfast in their goal of setting a new world record for the fastest unsupported Pacific crossing. Their determination reflects not only their physical stamina but also the strong bond they share with their community back home. Isn’t it incredible how collective strength can push individuals toward greatness?
The unwavering support from Chamberlain Care Home and the wider community serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of solidarity and collective effort in the face of immense challenges. As the brothers continue their journey, residents and supporters alike are eagerly awaiting their arrival, ready to celebrate an extraordinary achievement. Will they break the record? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the spirit of community is alive and well.
