As a retired vet and respected horseman Bob, who recently celebrated his 90th birthday is a well known figure in the Borders farming community. Sadly, Bob has been diagnosed with vascular dementia and Alzheimer's disease and is no longer able to ride however he still flies the flag bravely, managing to keep the stables tidy and feed his favorite old horse.
For his recent birthday, Bob's son Gordon gave him a unique and unusual gift - a song inspired by Bob's love of horseriding and featuring a quote from Bob's favourite poet, Will H. Ogilvie.
Gordon, who previously worked for Alzheimer Scotland, said "initially it was intended as a bit of fun, celebrating the equestrian aspects of dad's life, but it gradually became something honouring the little wins in his daily battle with this cruel and debilitating condition."
Gordon has now turned the song and accompanying music video into a crowdfunding campaign to support the work of Alzheimer Scotland and hopes families in a similar situation will find comfort in it. His tribute to his dad, titled "The Grey", has even been played on BBC radio Scotland!
We are honoured that Gordon has chosen to donate all proceeds from this very personal project to Alzheimer Scotland. Take action on dementia and support Gordon and Bob's fundraising at their Go Fund Me page.