She was perfect in her own Auntie Carol way.
Auntie Carol wasn’t just family to me she was something special. She was always my favorite visit growing up.
I’ll never forget flying from Vegas to Glasgow with my sister when we were young. It was an 18-hour trip, and I couldn’t sleep a second because I was so excited to see her. She made it even better driving all the way from Dingwall just to pick us up. That was her. She showed up. She managed to do that in other important moments all the time.
Being at her house without my parents, just getting that time with her, is something I’ll always hold onto with my sister.
The last time I saw her felt different. I was older, and I got to see her world her friends, her circle, the life she built. Everything just made more sense. I didn’t just see my aunt anymore I saw the kind of woman she truly was.
And she was strong. She lived a life she was proud of. I’ll never forget her telling me, “I wouldn’t change a thing.” And you could feel that she meant it.
That’s rare.
I’m forever grateful to call her my aunt. She’s one of the biggest reasons I love Scotland, and one of the biggest reasons I’ll always have some great memories with me.
Now, the Raeburn family is completely reunited. My Grandpa Patrick, who I never got to meet, and my Grandma Pearl have both their baby girls back.
And I know she’s at peace.
I just hope one day I can say the same thing she did that I wouldn’t change a thing.
I love you, Auntie Carol.
Braedon Burt
30/04/2026
