The SPAA and The Catherine McEwan Foundation: A Partnership for Positive Change

The Scottish Passenger Agents’ Association (SPAA) is honoured to support The Catherine McEwan Foundation as our Charity of The Year with a donation of £11,520 raised from the annual award evening on 31st October 2024. Since 2003, this foundation has transformed the lives of those living with Crohn’s and Colitis, providing crucial resources for children, young people, and adults affected by inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and funding advancements in treatment and care across Scotland.

Through its collaborative approach, the Foundation partners with hospitals and healthcare providers like Glasgow Royal Infirmary and The Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow, equipping them with specialised tools and funding pioneering research that enhances patient outcomes. As Vikki Garrick, an IBD nurse specialist, shared, “Having the Foundation’s support means we can develop our service around what our patients want – something that isn’t easy in today’s NHS.”

Derek McEwan, chief executive of The Catherine McEwan Foundation joined us on stage at the annual awards ceremony  in Glasgow to accept the cheque. He said,

“It is always special to me that others believe enough in our work to bestow such a prestigious honour of “Charity of the Year” upon us. To have this honour from SPAA is particularly special. Even more so when our team were met with such generosity of spirit from you guys as a team but also your incredible guests.

“I speak for every one on our team in saying we were made to feel like part of the travel industry family last night, thank you. To raise a mind blowing £11,520 is exceptional and will go a long way to supporting young people like Harris who you have seen in our video.
“Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

The SPAA believes in the power of partnerships to create real impact, aligning with The Catherine McEwan Foundation’s mission to improve the quality of life for Scotland’s IBD community. Together, we’re building a future where everyone affected by Crohn’s and Colitis can access better care, better treatments, and brighter lives