Dairy producer donated more than US$3,800 to University Hospital Wishaw
By Diego Flammini
Staff Writer
Farms.com
A farmer used his birthday to raise money for a neonatal unit at a local hospital.
Johnny Mackie welcomed Archie and Lucas, two grandsons, into his life earlier in the year. Both boys needed care from the Wishaw General Neonatal Unit at University Hospital Wishaw.
After seeing the care his new grandsons received, the 500-head dairy farmer from Strathaven, Scotland, decided to use his 70th birthday celebrations in June for a greater cause.
He planned to host a charity auction and hog roast on his farm to raise funds for the neonatal unit to show his appreciation for taking such good care of his family.
The neonatal team’s efforts did not go unnoticed by their colleagues, who awarded the team a prize for outstanding care during a staff awards ceremony in May.
The community soon got involved as local businesses stepped up with donations of champagne, afternoon tea, designer glasses and other prizes.
After all the prizes sold at auction, the only thing left to do was count the donations.
“The Mackie family would like to thank everyone who donated money and prizes and helped to make the day a success,” said Joanna Boyle, Archie’s mom, the Daily Record reported. “We are pleased to announce a grand total of £3000 (US$3,860) was raised.”
Mackie presented the neonatal staff with a cheque on July 27.
Archie and Lucas have since made full recoveries, the Daily Record reported.
Johnny Mackie is flanked by his two grandsons, Archie and Lucas.
Daily Record photo