Zipping Above the Clyde for Chest Heart and Stroke Scotland 13 June 2025 Our incredible fundraiser Malcolm is daring YOU to brave Ziplside the Clyde on Friday 22 August! Last year Malcolm ticked this monumental challenge off his bucket list as he ziplined from a crane next to the iconic Glasgow Riverside Museum, soaring 100ft high and gliding 1245ft along the Clyde. Malcolm wanted to give back as he has found valuable support at the Killie Heartmates, one of our affiliated peer support groups. He shared more about his amazing experience at Zipslide the Clyde. Before my operation, I thought I’d never feel fit again or enjoy doing something exciting – this made me feel alive. Malcolm said: “The Clyde is probably the most famous river in Scotland and last year on a warm, bright day I had the privilege of doing a zipslide above it whilst supporting CHSS. I suppose in a lot of ways the River Clyde is a symbol of Scottish resilience, progress and hard work. “It was announced at one of the Killie Heartmates exercise classes that volunteers were being looked for to “Zipslide the Clyde” in support of Chest, Heart and Stroke Scotland (CHSS). As CHSS are closely associated with Killie Heartmates and I feel part of the “family” being supported by them, taking part was a no-brainer. Although I knew it would be a an adrenaline-fueled experience, it was also the opportunity of giving back that inspired me to say, “Yes”.” Why do it? “The idea of participating in the zipslide initially sparked from my desire to contribute to a cause which is, quite literally, close to my heart. Three years ago, I couldn’t even walk up the stairs without having to stop for breath or having an angina attack. My aortic valve had been faulty for some time due to calcification. “8th September 2022, I went into theatre with a Queen on the throne and came out with both a new King and metallic heart valve. The change has been amazing. I can now walk without needing to stop, climb stairs easily and take part in activities that will give me a “rush” without any negative effects. “CHSS is dedicated to improving the quality of life for individuals affected by chest, heart, and stroke conditions in Scotland. They are committed to research, advocacy, and support services. Indirectly, via Killie Heartmates and probably directly via my operation, they have supported me which made me want to take part in helping raise funds in a practical, meaningful way.” “On the day of the event, there was a lot of energy, around the zipslide setup. Everyone taking part was welcomed and given instructions about what the event. Once I’d registered that I was there I was, I was greeted by the CHSS team and felt a sense of camaraderie with the other volunteers. The event organisers were professional, supportive and I felt I was in safe hands at all times. The process of gearing up—donning a harness and helmet, listening intently to safety instructions—felt very reassuring. I felt assured that all participants could focus on enjoying the experience without worrying about their safety.” While the adrenaline rush of the zipslide was unforgettable, the true significance of the day was raising funds. A leap of faith “I suppose watching the crane raising up the platform did feel a little daunting but, once I, that lifting just became part of the experience. Standing within the “launch platform”, I took a moment to take in the panoramic view of the Clyde below me and to talk to those beside me. I opted to go last for my group as I just wanted to enjoy being up there for as long as possible. It was great looking down and seeing my personal support group waving and cheering me on. “Here’s the best thing, for anyone thinking they couldn’t step off the platform – you don’t! you just kind of sit down into your harness and then…let go and just fly. Although it seemed to be over quickly, I do remember I had time to look about me and enjoy the incredible views with the adrenaline buzz. I could see around the city and the river below me. I wanted to go again! Walking back to the event base, I just felt brilliant and even a wee bit emotional that I’d achieved it.” “While the adrenaline rush of the zipslide was unforgettable, the true significance of the day was raising funds. I hoped I might raise around £300. Thanks to the generosity of sponsors and donors, I raised closed close to £450 for CHSS, thereby contributing to helping deliver care and resources to those living with chest, heart, and stroke conditions. That adds to the thrill of stepping out of my comfort zone. Its almost a year since I did it, thinking it was all done and dusted but I was delighted to receive a statement regarding the Gift Aid part of my fund raising. In addition to the funds, I’d raised over £150 was added to it from Gift Aid contributions. So don’t forget to get that extra box ticked! £450 is great but £600 is far better.” Should you do it? “One answer – OH AYE!! Step out, enjoy the experience and increase the thrill by knowing you’re doing it in support of CHSS and everyone they help. Before my operation, I thought I’d never feel fit again or enjoy doing something exciting – this made me feel alive. So much so that this year I’m not going to Zipslide the Clyde, I’m going to abseil off the Forth Rail Bridge instead. Therefore, CHSS need someone else to fill my place over the Clyde and experience the thrills of fund raising with an adrenaline rush…GO ON, I DARE YOU!” Do something incredible and sign up to Zipslide the Clyde on Friday 22 August!