Dumfries Dougie’s fundraiser for charity that saved him

Dumfries Dad Raises Funds for Charity That Saved Him

Dougie Smith, a resident of Dumfries, has launched a fundraising campaign to give back to the charity that he credits with saving his life. The Dumfries Veterans Garden provided Dougie with crucial support during a difficult period following the loss of five family members. He expressed deep gratitude for the counselling and friendship he found at the charity, without which he believes he might not be alive today.

In an effort to support the charity that supported him, Dougie is aiming to raise £1,000 for a new bee-keeping initiative at the Veterans Garden. This project aims to benefit both veterans and visitors by creating a therapeutic space centered around bees. The funds will be used to establish a honey bee-keeping teaching shed, a safe viewing area for observing the bees, and a wildflower garden to support the bee colony.

The Veterans Garden’s bee expert, Jim Cherry, has highlighted the therapeutic benefits of bee-keeping for individuals suffering from PTSD. Inspired by Jim’s passion, Dougie donated a hive, starter kit, and bees to kickstart the project. He envisions the bee-keeping shed and garden as not only a learning space but also a source of joy and healing for many.

Dougie’s personal journey with the Veterans Garden has been transformative, pulling him back from a dark place and providing vital support for his mental health. Recognising the profound impact of the charity on his life, he hopes to rally community support to reach their fundraising goal swiftly.

To contribute to Dougie’s fundraising efforts, you can visit https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/douglas-smith-41.

Insights:
Dougie Smith’s story is a powerful example of the positive impact that community support and charity initiatives can have on individuals facing challenging circumstances. His determination to give back and support a cause that has helped him highlights the ripple effect of kindness and generosity. The bee-keeping project not only offers practical benefits but also symbolises growth, resilience, and the interconnectedness of nature and well-being. This story serves as a reminder of the importance of reaching out for help in times of need and the impact of paying it forward to support others in their healing journey.