A young Moray woman who launched a massive fundraising campaign after being diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND) has defied her condition by travelling to the other side of the world.
Lucy Lintott has raised more than £66,000 to combat the degenerative condition since her diagnosis in November 2013.
She is hoping to raise £100,000 for the MND Scotland charity, but recently took a break from her crusade to travel to Australia with her best friend for a wedding.
Miss Lintott, who lives in Garmouth, feared that being away from familiar surroundings could jeopardise her health and she faced an anxious wait before doctors would allow her to make the trip.
But the 20-year-old had the time of her life on the trip – cuddling koalas and even diving in the Great Barrier Reef.
She said: “I was scared to leave my family and my home, as when I’m here I can move about freely as I know where to hold on to and where I can let go and walk unassisted.
“And there was some concern about going on a long haul flight, as sometimes minor breathing difficulties such as those caused by MND can become serious due to cabin pressure.
“But I really enjoyed it, and there were no problems at all while I was over there.
“I had also worried about some of the wildlife you get in Australia, but I ended up holding a koala bear.
“I know they are supposed to carry some diseases, so I hope it had received its jabs, but it was very friendly and just got comfy on me before falling asleep.”
Miss Lintott travelled made the 36-hour journey with longtime friend Pippa Cortis, to attend her sister Lucy’s wedding in Cairns, on the country’s north-east coast.
Despite some trepidation over whether she was able to take part, Miss Lintott also went diving in the Great Barrier Reef while on her trek – an experience she describes as “beautiful”.
At present the Garmouth fundraiser’s collection stands at £66,564, more than two thirds of her target.
“It’s great to have raised so much money, I just can’t believe how well it has taken off”, she said.
“My aim is still to collect £100,000 and hopefully I can manage that.”
Anyone who wishes to contribute to Miss Lintott’s fundraising campaign can do so by visiting www.justgiving.com/Lucy-Lintott1