MCINNES Group has led a number of Highland firms in coming together to support the family of a one-year-old diagnosed with a rare, life-limiting illness.
Sophie, who turns two this summer, was diagnosed with CLN1 Batten disease in November. The aggressive and incredibly rare genetic condition causes progressive loss of mobility, vision, and independence.
In the wake of the diagnosis, Sophie’s mum Lizzie made the necessary decision to leave her job and become her daughter’s full-time carer – turning the family into a single-income household overnight.
Determined to ease financial pressures, the Highland family began exploring solar power as a long-term solution to cut energy costs. They were initially directed towards government funding, but were later told they didn’t qualify as the property failed to meet specific requirements.
Undeterred, Sophie’s dad Keith reached out to McInnes Group for advice. The firm offered a full solar and battery installation delivered entirely free of charge, with The Electric Centre, and DW Scaffolding also offering their services to ensure Sophie’s home is now powered by a fully installed solar and battery system – with all equipment, labour, and coordination donated at no cost to the family.
“We didn’t know McInnes Group before this,” Keith explained. “They were total strangers. But they listened, they cared, and they acted. What’s even more incredible about this is that it wasn’t just one person – it was a whole team, a whole community, who came together to support our family. That kind of generosity is rare.”
McInnes Group not only covered the cost of the battery, inverter, labour, and coordination – they rallied others to join the effort, including the Electric Center, who donated all solar panels and rails, and DW Scaffolding, who provided scaffolding and labour, free of charge.
Founded in 2011, McInnes Group is a family-run business providing expert plumbing, heating, and renewable energy solutions for both domestic and commercial clients across Scotland.
At the heart of the project was McInnes Group’s MD, Lachlan McInnes – a father himself – who says the decision to help was deeply personal.
“As a parent, Sophie’s story hit me especially hard,” Lachlan said. “We didn’t think twice. This wasn’t about business. It was about people. And it was about showing that in the Highlands, when someone’s struggling, we pull together.
“That sense of solidarity certainly carried the entire project through to completion – it really is a testament to what can be achieved when community comes first.”
Despite the heartbreaking diagnosis, Sophie continues to bring joy to everyone she meets. “Most people wouldn’t even realise she’s ill just by looking at her,” Keith said. “But she’s already lost some of her strength and independence. We don’t know what the future holds, but this act of kindness has taken a huge weight off our shoulders.”
To learn more about Sophie, her diagnosis, and ongoing community support, check out Sophie’s Story on Facebook.
