Scots schoolgirl fundraising for dad's speech therapy and charity that saved his life

A schoolgirl has set herself a fundraising mission to thank the people who saved her dad’s life after he suffered a stroke.

Michael McGregor, from Lochgilphead, was at work in Oban in March when colleagues noticed that his face had changed and he had gone quiet.

The 39-year-old was taken to the nearest A&E before being airlifted to Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow for emergency stroke treatment.

Michael’s loved ones were told that if he hadn’t been transferred via air ambulance, his chances of survival would have been slim.

After undergoing rehabilitation therapy at the Royal Alexandra Hospital for three months, the dad has been able to return home but still struggles with his mobility and ability to speak.

His daughter, seven-year-old Lydia Parker, has now decided to cycle 18 miles along the Crinan Canal in an effort to raise funds for Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance and her dad’s speech therapy.

The stroke has affected both Michael's mobility and ability to speak. — The stroke has affected both Michael’s mobility and ability to speak. Supplied

Mum, Hannah Parker, told STV News: “She was determined to do something this time after we explained that Daddy was fighting for his life and that the air ambulance got him to where he needed to be.

“She decided to raise money for the helicopter that saved Daddy’s life. That was her mission.

“Lydia always says she wants to hear Daddy speaking to me, so we decided that any additional money would be used for speech and language therapy so he can speak to his daughter again.”

Hannah believes the relationship between her ex-partner, Michael, and his daughter played a crucial role in waking him up after the almost fatal stroke.

“She is a daddy’s girl”, the 35-year-old said.

Michael and Lydia visit Ibrox for Father's Day. — Michael and Lydia visit Ibrox for Father’s Day. Supplied

“When we thought Michael was going to lose his life and he had slept all day, the moment he heard Lydia’s voice, his eyes opened and he tried to smile.

“He lives for her, and they have a fantastic relationship.”

For Father’s Day, Michael had a tour around Ibrox with Lydia. The seven-year-old is always looking for ways to spend as much time with her dad as possible.

Hannah believes her daughter has faced the difficult ordeal with a lot of courage.

“What Lydia has been through, you wouldn’t wish on any child,” the mum said.

Lydia is due to start the cycle at the end of next month. Supplied

“She has been the bravest soul. Both her dad and I are very proud of her.

“Lydia is an amazing girl, and she is resilient to everything. She was very scared at the beginning, but now she continuously thinks of ways she can help her dad.

“She always wants to spend time with him.”

Lydia will set off from Lochgilphead, Front Green, on August 30 alongside Finlay Macintyre, Michael’s seven-year-old stepson.