Bearsden army hero’s toughest challenge for his disabled son

Gulf war veteran Jason Eadie, who lives in Bearsden, will complete six challenges - including three marathons - this year in an attempt to raise £5,000 for the Children’s Hospice Association Scotland (CHAS).

The father-of-four’s son Mason (5) was born with severe brain damage and has quadriplegic cerebral palsy, which means he has no use of his limbs, can’t speak and is also registered blind.

Jason (42) completed the Glasgow Kiltwalk at the end of April and the Edinburgh Marathon on Sunday.

He will also take part in Beat the Borders in August; the Highland Perthshire Marathon and the Loch Ness Marathon - both in September - and the Great Scottish Run in October.

Jason said: “Mason is a happy wee guy who gets the most out of the restricted life that he has. However, in November 2011, he had a near death episode.

“His seizures increased and he was in such bad health that the doctors thought he would not make it through the night.”

However, fast-forward three years and Mason - who attends Campsie View, a special school in East Dunbartonshire - is still enjoying life to the full.

Following the increased seizures in November 2011, Mason was categorised as a ‘life-limited child’.

It was at this difficult time that he was introduced to Robin House children’s hospice in Balloch - run by CHAS.

Jason, a trainee train driver based at Yoker depot in Glasgow, said: “Robin House is an amazing place that provides remarkable support to families with life-limited children.

“It allows them to spend relaxing, quality time away from the daily stresses and strains that they can experience.

“I cannot praise Robin House and its staff enough for their hard work, passion and commitment.

“I want to complete all six events as a big thank you for the invaluable help and support that CHAS has provided. It will be a tough challenge but every donation raised will make a huge difference - no matter what the amount.”

Jason plans to apply for match funding to the ScotRail Foundation when applications open this summer.

ScotRail launched the Foundation last May to support local residents and staff who are involved with projects and fundraising events across the country.

It will distribute another £100,000 by March 2015 ‐ £15,000 of which will be allocated to staff via match funding for charities they are fundraising for.

ScotRail director Pat Callaghan said: “We are immensely proud of Jason’s charity efforts and wish him the very best of luck with all the events.”

Criona Knight, corporate and events fundraiser for CHAS, said: “Everyone here at CHAS wishes Jason the best of luck with his challenges and can’t quite believe what he is taking on.

“Jason understands how important every penny raised is for the children and families that we care for, and how grateful we are to everyone that donates.

“We are looking forward to hearing how he fairs in each of the events and can’t thank him enough for his efforts and support.”

Prior to joining ScotRail, Jason, who is married to Naomi, served with the Scots Guards for 24 years, during which he was deployed on various operations, including the Gulf War in 1991 and Afghanistan in 2010.

Jason added: “I feel very privileged to be working for First ScotRail and for being given the opportunity of a second career.”

To sponsor Jason, please visit www.justgiving.com/Jason-Eadie