Cambuslang dad raises £11,000 for autism group

Nov 18 2009 by Douglas Dickie, Rutherglen Reformer

A CAMBUSLANG man put himself through the physical wringer so he could raise money for a very good cause.

Gary McLaughlin completed the London Triathlon to raise money for the Cathkin Autism and Additional Needs Group.

Gary, whose son attends the autism base at Cathkin Primary, swam 750 metres across the River Thames and then cycled 20km before donning his running shoes for another 5km in what is the world’s largest triathlon event.

In total, he raised an incredible £11,000 for the group, which will go towards providing them with vital support tools.

Gary said the triathlon was one of the hardest things he had ever done, but the fact he has been able to hand over such an impressive amount made it all worthwhile.

He said: “It was pretty gruelling and the training was tough, but it felt amazing when I crossed the finish line knowing that all the money raised was going to the Cathkin Autism and Additional Needs Group. It made all the effort worthwhile knowing the kids would benefit from it."

A spokesperson for the group praised Gary’s efforts, adding that the children were all very proud of him.

He said: “This is a tremendous personal achievement for Gary and a fantastic boost for the group.

“He should be very proud of what he has achieved and the money will go a long way in helping the children who attend the autism and additional needs base at Cathkin Primary School.

“The children had a presentation of thanks for Gary at the school and they sang a song especially written for him and made him a thank-you card which they all signed.

“We are so grateful to him and his family who went to London to cheer him on and raised this incredible amount of money for the group.”

The spokesman added: “He really is a local hero and we can't thank him enough for this tremendous effort.”

The group have been trying to raise enough money for a minibus as well as other therapy tools.

The spokesperson added: “The money will be put to very good use and will help enormously with our long-term goal of funding a minibus to get the children out into the community. It will also pay for music therapy for the next school term which will benefit all of the children.”

There are currently 31 youngsters based in the additional needs unit at Cathkin, including six in the autism classroom.