We’re Lighting Up The Kelpies for Finlay’s Superstars

Our team is taking on the Supernova Kelpies 5K—a family‑friendly, glow‑in‑the‑dark walk/run at dusk—to raise funds for Finlay’s Superstars

Callum MacKinnon

Written by Callum MacKinnon

Published on 9 February 2026 12:00 am - 7 minute read

A Friday‑morning lifeline we’re determined to keep shining

At dusk on Saturday 14th March, we’ll gather under the glow of The Kelpies—families, friends, little ones in neon, grandparents in flashing headbands—and set off together for the Supernova 5K. It’s joyful, accessible, and made for all speeds. And this year, we’re doing it with one purpose: to keep Finlay’s Superstars—our Friday morning, multi‑sensory group for preschool children with additional support needs—open, affordable, and thriving.

Why Friday mornings matter

Through feedback from our amazing families, we’ve learned that Finlay’s Superstars has become more than a group—it’s a lifeline.
It’s where children can explore, grow, and build confidence through play‑based occupational therapy. It’s where parents and carers find understanding, connection, and reassurance during some of the most important years of their child’s development.

The golden rule: never apologise for your child.
Everyone is welcome here—diagnosis or not.

The heart behind the name

Finlay’s Superstars was created by Jenni, inspired by her son Finlay, who passed away in 2021. Finlay lived with an extremely rare genetic condition and benefitted immensely from sensory play. Out of love and lived experience, Jenni poured her energy into nurturing a small, caring, non‑judgemental space where families could feel less alone.

BounceOT has stepped in to help keep the group going—not to take over, but to support what already works. We’re committed to protecting the group’s essence and ensuring its members continue to lead the way.

Why we’re fundraising now

Demand for early support is rising. Running a safe, inclusive, high‑quality group takes more than passion (though we have plenty of that). It requires specialist equipment, trained staff, adapted resources, and the flexibility to meet each child where they are. Fundraising helps bridge the gap between what it costs to run sessions and what we ask families to contribute—so cost is never the reason a child can’t attend.

Your donation does this:

  • Keeps sessions affordable and provides subsidised places where needed
  • Maintains a sensory‑rich environment (replacing well‑loved items, adding new resources)
  • Supports specialist staff with training and planning time to deliver consistent, high‑quality sessions
  • Protects a caring, non‑judgemental community where parents can share experiences, learn strategies, and feel less alone

Why the Supernova Kelpies 5K?

Because it’s for everyone—no stress, no time limits, just people coming together to make something beautiful glow even brighter. That spirit mirrors Finlay’s Superstars: welcoming, adaptive, and joyful. Whether you run, walk, wheel, or dance your way round, you’re part of the team.

  • Event: Supernova Kelpies 5K (Saturday evening)
  • Vibe: Dusk, neon, and lots of smiles
  • Speed: Your pace, your way
  • Dress code: Anything that glows

How you can help today

  1. Donate to our GoFundMe → https://gofund.me/19e35e272 

  2. Sponsor a place for a child who needs it → [Sponsor a Superstar coming soon]

  3. Join our glow team at the Kelpies or cheer us on Saturday 14th March → Supernova Run - The Kelpies 2026 | Fri 13 Mar | Book @ Findarace

  4. Share this blog with family, friends, and colleagues!

  5. Partner with us (corporate support or in‑kind resources) → Support Us | BounceOT | Activity Based Occupational Therapy in Stirling

 

No child turned away because of cost. That’s the line we won’t cross—your support makes it possible.

Our promise: transparency and care

We’ll post an update after the event with photos, thanks, and a short summary of funds raised and how they’ll be used. We’re accountable to the families we serve—and to you.

“I’m thrilled that BounceOT will support Finlay’s Superstars. I know how much this group means to Jenni and to families. My role is to support—clinically, financially, and practically—while keeping the group led by its members and true to its essence.”
Callum MacKinnon, Executive Director, BounceOT

Our
Supporters

National Lottery
Foundation Scotland
Scottish Autism
Stirling Council
Social Entrepreneurs Fund
Corra Foundation
Clackmannanshire Council
Converge Challenge
EY Foundation
Sense Scotland
Pamis
SVE
CTSI