Mauchline: Fundraising for sisters facing cancer battle

Lynne Carruthers and Ryan Cochrane's daughters, Riley and Georgie, are both battling leukaemia.

Four-year-old Riley became extremely unwell over Christmas 2022 and, following tests and hospital visits, she was diagnosed in February of last year.

Then one-year-old Georgie was given the same diagnosis back in April. Both girls have been receiving treated at the Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow.

Lynne, Ryan, Riley and Georgie. (Image: Submitted)

Lynne's sister, Gillian, set up a fund-raising page to support Lynne and Ryan so that they can be by their daughters' sides throughout the treatment.

Just like the people of Mauchline and beyond have done before, they've come together to raise a wonderful amount for the family.

An initial target of £10,000 was set, with the total raised now standing at £13,000.

Gillian said: "The generosity has been so amazing and the family is so thankful for the support.

"It's just a case of taking things one step at a time, because it can all get a wee bit overwhelming.

“Lynne gave up her job so that she can be with them as much as she can, and it’s difficult for Ryan to work, because if the two girls are in hospital, then one of the parents need to be with each of them.

"They are only looking forward and planning to take them to Disney once they're through all the treatment and clear to travel."

The area has shown its community spirit aplenty in the past. None more so than for young Ava Bolton, who is battling neuroblastoma.

Locals have come together once again to raise thousands for Riley and Georgie, which has included a separate fundraiser being set up by Janice Logan, who is raising money to donate to the family by climbing Goatfell on Arran this summer, and Mauchline's football teams recently holding an auction of football items to raise money.