Kayleigh’s Star is Shining Brightly

A week ago I hadn't heard of Anna & Jonathan Cordiner, who had their heart broken when they lost the apple of their eye, Kayleigh, who was little over 2 years old.

You see it was a week ago I asked Zoey to share some of the pictures of our “Kiltwalk Inspirations” and I resonated with every single one.

For those taking part in The Kiltwalk for the first time, our “Inspiration” photographs are dotted along The Kiltwalk route and are a stark reminder to our Kiltwalkers why they’re doing what they’re doing. They are also our Kiltwalkers greatest inspiration when the going gets tough over those last few miles on Kiltwalk Day.

I had requested the pictures so I could get in touch with some of the families and ask permission to share their story on our Blipfoto page, which has become a lasting tribute to our causes and Kiltwalkers alike.

When I then saw Kayleigh, pictured above, my heart sank but I felt compelled to find out more about Kayleigh and the charity set up in her name “Kayleigh’s Wee Stars”

Before you read further, please take 01:30 of your time to watch this video, one of Kayleigh’s parent’s favourites and you’ll fall in love with her infectious giggle and wonderful smile, just like I have Kayleigh's Playtime Video

Kayleigh's Wee Stars is a charity based in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, established to provide financial support for families where a child has a terminal illness.

In January 2012, Jonathan and Anna Cordiner’s beautiful 20 month old daughter Kayleigh was diagnosed with Atypical Teratoid Rhabdoid Tumour (ATRT) is a rare, but terminal tumour usually diagnosed in childhood.

Jonathan, Anna and all their family were completely devastated, however they made it their mission to make Kayleigh’s last few months the most special time of their lives, packed full of adventures and memories they would cherish forever. 6 months later, when Kayleigh sadly passed away, Jonathan and Anna had many happy memories to look back on and smile about.

Those adventures and memories are so precious that Jonathan and Anna decided to set up a charity to help other families experience and treasure their own memories and that charity is Kayleigh’s Wee Stars.
Kayleigh’s Wee Stars provide financial support to assist families whose children have been given a terminal diagnosis. The money they donate is used to fund trips and adventures, or simply help take the financial strain off families who need to provide care for their children.

Kayleigh’s Wee Stars Team will be turning out in force at our Edinburgh Kiltwalk, so if you see them, tell them you’ve read about their wonderful charity and watched Kayleigh giggle as she splashes like the happiest girl in town. I’m sure it will mean a lot to them.