How to donate to Margaret Payne’s NHS Virgin Money Giving
A WOMAN, 90, is hoping to climb the equivalent of a 2,398ft mountain in her own home to help raise money for the NHS in the fight against coronavirus. So far she has raised nearly £200,000.
Margaret Payne took inspiration from Captain Tom Moore after his 100 laps raised millions for the NHS.
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How to donate to Margaret Payne's campaign
Margaret Payne aims to reach the summit of the Scottish mountain Suilven, climbing a total of 2,398 feet, in her Sutherland home.
The 90-year-old will climb her 17 stairs a total of 282 times to complete the challenge.
Margaret's inspiration to climb the mountain came after she climbed Suilven with her sister during World War Two.
She said: "I first climbed Suilven in 1944 aged 15 with my sister Elizabeth from Glencanisp, Lochinver, during the war."
She has estimated that the bid will take her over two months to complete.
The challenge was posted to a fundraising page where Margaret set a target to raise £10,000 for the NHS.
By April 17, Margaret had smashed her target by 974 per cent, raising more than £97,000 for the NHS.
You can help Margaret's campaign by donating through her fundraising
Join our George Cross campaign for NHS staff
SUN readers are today urged to sign a petition calling for our NHS staff to be awarded the George Cross.
Yesterday, we backed a proposal by Lord Ashcroft to honour our health heroes with the gallantry gong given for acts of bravery that did not take place in battle.
A No10 spokesman said: “The NHS is doing a fantastic job and the nation will want to find a way to say thank you when we have defeated this virus.”
SAS hero Andy McNab added: “The award of a George Cross would show an emotional appreciation.”
We are asking readers to sign the petition online at .
What is Margaret Payne campaigning for?
The 90-year-old, who has lived in the Highlands for over 40 years, is hoping to raise money for the NHS during the battle against coronavirus which she says is a "difficult time" for them.
She aims to give back in return for the "extraordinary support" she has received over the last number of years.
In addition to raising money for the NHS, Margaret will be donating money for the Highland Hospice.
Margaret started the challenge on Easter Sunday, climbing up three flights before her Easter lunch.
She said: "Here we go.. starting Easter Sunday .... 3 flights before lunch today.
"Raining and windy outside but warm going up and down the stairs!"