An amputee has completed the Glasgow Kiltwalk just two months after losing his leg in a car accident.
Andy Watson, 47, from Alexandria, raised nearly £1800 for Down’s Syndrome Scotland by completing the 22.7-mile Mighty Stride from Glasgow Green to Moss O’Balloch Park.
Just two months prior in Helensburgh, Andy was involved in a crash when a car lurched forward and pinned him against a wall.
Following the incident, Andy’s right leg was amputated above the knee.
The traumatic limb loss inspired Andy to take on the challenging walk.
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Reflecting on the walk, Andy said: "I am so grateful to my friends who helped me complete it as I obviously had to take lots of rests in the chair and they were able to push me at various points so we could keep up with the crowd.
"We’re all human and we’re all so much more capable than we think we are – maybe even more than we give ourselves credit for – so my only message would be for people to never feel scared to try something."
While he set off with a modest fundraising target of £300, generous donations helped Andy raise nearly £1800.
His fundraiser is still open for donations and can be found at www.justgiving.com/page/andrew-watson-5.
The funds raised will go to Down’s Syndrome Scotland, a charity close to his heart because of a friend’s experience with their positive outreach work.
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Andy said: "We set off around 7am on the day of the walk and I think it was about 3.30pm when we crossed the finish line.
"There were a few people telling me they thought I was doing something really inspiring and while I know what they mean I didn’t quite feel that way myself.
"I’m just a normal guy doing what I feel to be a normal thing – to push yourself and stay positive.
"Sitting doing nothing would lead to a depressing cycle and I’m determined to not let that happen.
“Completing this walk was a way of proving to myself that losing my leg doesn’t mean my life is over.
"I’d like to thank everyone who donated to my Just Giving page as I was completely blown away when I saw the total raised, not to mention all the messages of support."
"So when I got home I felt I had earned a wee beer so I allowed myself to have that wee positive moment.
"To everyone behind the scenes who helped me get to where I currently am, thank you."
Andy is currently being supported by law firm Digby Brown as he seeks access to enhanced treatment and prosthetic support.
The driver involved in the accident, a 23-year-old, has been reported to the procurator fiscal.
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