Great-grandmother, 98, plays piano every day for NHS

Rebecca Parker is not letting arthritis stop her from raising money for the health service.

Great-grandmother, 98, plays piano every day for NHS

A 98-year-old great-grandmother is raising money for the NHS by playing the piano every day for 100 days.

Rebecca Parker, from Carluke in South Lanarkshire, is more than halfway towards her target despite having arthritis in her hands.

The ex-primary school teacher plays traditional Highland dancing and Scottish tunes on a baby grand piano at McClymont House care home in Lanark.

Inspired by Captain Tom Moore, Mrs Parker said she wanted to help NHS Lanarkshire as it continues to battle the coroanvirus pandemic.

Mrs Parker, who grew up in Broadford on the Isle of Skye, said: “My mother was a fine pianist and she taught me.

“I get a fine big cushion to sit on and I like to play some Scottish tunes.”

Charles Delaney, manager of McClymont House, said Mrs Parker’s piano playing lifted people’s spirits and put a smile on their faces.

He said: “Rebecca’s faith and her church are very important to her and she is doing this to replicate what Captain Tom did to support the NHS.

“She is a remarkable woman, inspiring and selfless.

“The fact that she is 98 and still determined to continue helping people in the wider community is inspiring.”

Rev Dr Elijah Obinna, minister of St John’s Parish Church, described Mrs Parker, who has raised £1350 through her online fundraising page so far, as an “amazing lady”.

Money raised by Mrs Parker will be given to Lanarkshire Health Board Endowment Fund which invests donations to improve patient’s health.

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