A selfless young man is set to run from Edinburgh to Glasgow following his mum's cancer diagnosis.
Ally Russell, from Kirkintilloch, will set off on Princes Street in the capital at 5am on Saturday, June 8 and aims to reach the Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre in Glasgow by 6pm that same day.
The 24-year-old is taking part in this 100km challenge to fundraise for the team at the Beatson, who have looked after his mum Lorna since she was diagnosed with a rare aggressive lymphoma last Christmas Eve.
Mum of three Lorna has been in hospital since she was diagnosed – she was originally in The Beatson but has recently moved to the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital to start her stem cell transplant.
She was previously diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005.
Ally said: “My mum uses a lot of Beatson Cancer Charity’s services, especially The Wellbeing Centre. This has been a safe space for all of us when visiting and it’s a nice change to go here to spend time together.
“My mum also goes to the Wellbeing Centre on her own to get a change of scenery from the wards.
“She also uses the services to get massages and manicures for a sense of normality.
“She has used the wig fitting service too and her wig looks great.”
He will be joined by his friend Kyle who will do the full 100km run with him and they will be supported by their friends and Ally's girlfriend Tess on the momentous day.
Ally has already raised over £5000 for the Beatson as a thank-you for the work they have done for his mum.
He said: “Since December I have seen all the hard work, dedication and care everyone has shown my mum as well as every other patients in there.
“I think the staff and everyone involved with The Beatson are true heroes and I believe their work shouldn’t go unnoticed and should be respected by all.”
Maisie McCormick, community fundraising manager at Beatson Cancer Charity, added: “We are all so inspired by Ally and the incredible challenge he’s taking on this weekend.
“The money raised by Ally and his family and friends will help us to support so many patients and their families in the west of Scotland and beyond.
“We are all wishing Ally the best of luck and can’t wait to hear all about his challenge!”
To donate to Ally's fundraiser, click here.
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