Every year, the Master of Lodge Cadder Argyle in Chryston nominates a charitable cause to receive additional funding over and above the annual donations given to local and national charities.

The Master in 2005, John Mackie, chose a charity with which he has been personally involved over many years, the Rett Syndrome Association Scotland.

“Rett syndrome is the clinical expression of the Rett disorder, a complex, genetic, neurological condition which affects far more girls than boys. Although signs may not be initially obvious, it is present at birth. It usually becomes more evident during the second year. People with Rett syndrome are almost always profoundly and multiply disabled and totally dependent on

others for all their needs throughout their lives but severity may vary considerably. The Association is a Scottish Registered Charity. It offers support through correspondence, telephone and one to one contact where possible. It has a bereavement counsellor and holds Therapy Days and regular Open Clinics.”

Pictured to the right is John, now Immediate Past Master, presenting a cheque for £800 to Graeme Dallachy, Chairman of Rett Syndrome Association Scotland. Also present in the photograph are Charles Blades, Senior Warden; Jim Cowan, Master; and Russell Cameron, Junior Warden.

Since 1984 when the Master’s Charity appeal began, over £20,000 has been raised for worthwhile causes. This in addition to some two to three hundred pounds donated each year to local causes. This Master this year, Jim Cowan, has chosen Erskine Home to be his nominated charity and it is hoped that a donation similar to the one above can be presented next year.