A Kilmarnock woman admits she feared she was going to lose her mum to cancer – but says a support charity is helping her family live to the full.
Beatson Cancer Charity is using the festive season to share positive stories to shine a spotlight on its bauble appeal and to continue services for families affected by cancer.
And one Ayrshire family is lifting the lid on their experience as they issue a plea for public support for the charity.
Morgan Logan, 21, is thanking Beatson Cancer Charity supporters for helping her mum Kay through her cancer treatment after she was diagnosed with cervical cancer for the second time this year.
Morgan said: “My mum was first diagnosed with cervical cancer in June 2014, she was only 41.
“In 2019, she was given the all clear. This was the best day ever – I hugged mum so tight, I’ve never felt so relieved.
“However, in July 2021, we were told that the cancer had returned, with vengeance. This time, the cancer had spread to her large and small intestines – she was taken into hospital for an emergency operation and she is now living with a stoma bag, whilst undertaking regular chemotherapy sessions at The Beatson.
“The news that we received in July was a devastating blow to our family.
"I was petrified that my mum’s body would not be strong enough to fight it the second time around; I was so scared that I was going to lose her.
"But, thanks to support from The Beatson and Beatson Cancer Charity, I’m now feeling much stronger and more positive.”
Everyone has their own reason to hang a Beatson Bauble with people encouraged to remember, celebrate, thank or give hope.
Morgan added: “By supporting Beatson Cancer Charity, you really are making a massive difference to families like mine.
“I’m still trying to process that we’re having to go through it all again, it’s terrifying, but I get by knowing that mum is getting the best care possible from the loveliest doctors and nurses at The Beatson.
“That’s why, this year, I’m hanging my Beatson Bauble to say thank you to The Beatson for looking after my mum.”
By donating to the Beatson Bauble Appeal, you will continue to provide care, love and hope to families this festive season and beyond.
Kay said: “This year I’m hanging my Beatson Bauble to say thank you to the staff, doctors, nurses and the Beatson Cancer Charity for all their help and support throughout my diagnosis.
“You’ve just got to stay positive and get on with the fight, and so the Beatson are now going to be a part of my family for the rest of my life.
“The support they provide, even when you’re in getting treatment; they’re always round with cups of tea and support, and if you’re needing anything – it's there for you, any time – you can just contact them and go when you’re feeling down or needing someone to talk to. They're always on the end of the phone.”
Everyone who donates will receive two baubles in the post – one to hang on their own tree at home and one to send back to be hung on the Beatson tree.
To support Beatson Cancer Charity’s Bauble Appeal, visit www.beatsoncancercharity.org/bauble
You can also donate by texting the word BEATSON to 70560 to donate £10 or you can call (0141) 212 0505.
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