A GROUP of consultants at Glasgow’s leading cancer hospital are putting their best foot forward to cover 100 miles a day for two deserving causes.

The haematology team within the Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre have joined forces to complete 2900 miles in just 29 days.

The determined colleagues decided to take on the tough challenge to raise vital funds for the Beatson Cancer Charity and the Paul O'Gorman Leukaemia Research Centre.

One of the medics, Dr Gillian Horne, told the Glasgow Times that staff wanted to give something back after being moved by the plight of the people they treat.

She added: “We see first-hand what our patients go through every day and this was our way of helping two fantastic organisations, while also contributing towards further research into blood cancer.

“We decided to split up the miles between us, so we have been sponsored to run, cycle and walk throughout February to reach our fundraising goal of £5,000."

Both of the chosen charities improve the lives of patients, either through scientific research into new drugs for blood cancer, or by improving the experience that they have during their treatment and follow-up care.

Gillian added: "We just want to help raise awareness of the incredible work these causes do and how they benefit people.”

The dedicated team is made up of Gillian, Matt Wilson, Mark Rafferty, Chris McDermott, Mark Drummond, Nick Heaney, Annie Latif, Pam McKay and Jennifer Travers - and all have been putting in the miles before and after their busy shifts at the hospital.

Gillian, 39, from Glasgow, admits that juggling their life-saving work and the challenge has been difficult at times.

Glasgow Times: Dr Gillian Horne Dr Gillian Horne (Image: Supplied)

She said: “There’s a few of us with sore legs, but the finish line is almost in sight. When I came up with idea of covering 100 miles a day it didn’t seem so bad at the time, but it's been tricky in practice. Somehow though we’ve all manged to fit it in and around our busy schedules one way or another. A few of us cycle or run into work and some have a Peloton they use when they get home to make up the miles, but they always get done.

“One member of the team even hired a bike to cover his stretch while on holiday in Dubai, so everyone has really got stuck in and given it their all."

Gillian says that watching the amount of cash they have raised steadily rising has been a great motivator.

She added: “We’ve almost reached our fundraising target and the money will be split between both charities. We’ve been overwhelmed with the amount of donations and kind, supportive message we’ve had. It’s really encouraged us all to keep going, especially as we know it will help to make a difference to our patients, which is what matters most of all.

“So far, I’ve covered just over 350 miles, and my target is 400, so I've got a few more to do before the month ends. We’re all determined to see it through but I think a few of us will be glad to give our legs a well-earned rest.” 

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Heilidh Wilson, corporate fundraiser at the Beatson Cancer Charity, which is celebrating its 10 year anniversary on Tuesday, said: “We are so grateful for this wonderful support from the haematology team in the Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre.

“This is an incredible initiative and the staff there already do an amazing job supporting patients every day.

"Taking on this challenge helps our charity to support so many more people going through cancer treatment by developing new services and enhancing existing ones."

To donate, visit  Gillian Horne is fundraising for Beatson Cancer Charity (justgiving.com)