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In this engaging conversation, Barbara Barnes shares her inspiring life journey, from her early career as a primary school teacher to her extensive community service and charity work. At 84, she reflects on her adventures, including daring fundraising activities like wing walking and abseiling, all while advocating for Alzheimer's Scotland. Barbara discusses the challenges of aging, her motivations for helping others, and her philosophy on life, emphasizing that age should not limit one's aspirations. The episode concludes with a light-hearted discussion about her unique cocktail creation, Scottea, blending her Scottish and Yorkshire roots.

Barbara retired as a primary teacher in 2001. She has been a Justice of the Peace, a member of the board for Alzheimer Scotland for 10 years, a Vale of Leven Citizen and was awarded the British Empire Medal in 2013.

From 1999, aged 59, she started doing amazing things to raise money for various charities including: Alzheimer Scotland, the Stroke Association and Talking Newspaper. She has done: 5 abseils, 6 zip lines, a sky dive, 3 sponsored walks and 2 fire walks. For fun she has also climbed Ben Lomond and Sydney Harbour Bridge, gone gliding, had a helicopter ride and at aged 70 she did a wing walk!

Takeaways

Barbara was a primary school teacher for most of her working life and notes that the profession has changed enormously since she retired.

Barbara has been involved with Alzheimer's Scotland since 1986 due to her family's history with dementia.

She runs a choir for people with dementia and their carers, providing a supportive community.

Barbara has raised thousands for various charities through adventurous activities.

She completed a wing walk at the age of 70, showcasing her adventurous spirit.

Barbara believes age should not limit one's ability to try new things.

She has participated in numerous fundraising stunts, including abseiling and fire walking.

Barbara's son supports her actively.

Her cocktail, Scottea, combines whisky and Yorkshire tea, reflecting her heritage.

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