RETIRED VET and respected Borders horseman, Bob Muir, now lives with the daily challenge of vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, dearly wishing he was still in the saddle or calving cows!

But a few weeks ago, when Bob celebrated his 90th birthday, his son Gordon gave him an unusual gift – he had recorded a song 'The Grey' and made a video, loosely based on a quote from his father’s favourite ‘riders’ poet, Will H. Ogilvie.

Initially, it was intended as just a bit of fun, celebrating the equestrian aspects of his dad’s life. However, it gradually turned into something much more poignant: a moving tribute that honours the little wins in his daily battle with this cruel and debilitating condition.

The engineer who recorded the song – who has previously worked for Alzheimer Scotland – suggested that the video might also give comfort to other families in a similar situation, culminating in it now being part of a crowd-funding campaign on behalf of the Edinburgh-based charity.

The song has since been played on BBC Radio Scotland, and plans are now underway to make it available as a digital download, again with all proceeds going to Alzheimer Scotland.

Rachael McLean, lead locality fundraiser from Alzheimer Scotland, said: “With over 90,000 people living with dementia in this country, and a rising number of people receiving a diagnosis, we are honoured that Gordon has chosen to donate all proceeds from this very personal project to Alzheimer Scotland. All funds raised by Bob’s music video will help ensure that the charity can continue supporting people living with dementia, their carers and families, in the Borders and aiding our mission that nobody should face dementia alone.”

Sarah Simpson, the senior vet at Bob’s old veterinary practice in Hawick, said: “I’ve known Bob as long as I can remember and was thrilled to work alongside him. He taught me all about being a country vet in mixed practice. This ranged from treating small ‘furries’ in the surgery, to being ferried to remote farms by tractor in the snow to calve a cow. Bob was always a positive and supporting mentor to me as a young vet, often saying, “It’ll be fine, you’ve done your best!”

To support this worthy fundraiser, go to www.gofundme.com/f/gofundmecomdad-still-flying-the-flag

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