An inspirational Hamilton mum believes her daughter was “looking down on her” the moment she received the news that she had won a prestigious national charity award.
Elaine McHugh, an avid Beatson Cancer Charity ambassador, recently scooped the People’s Choice category at the Scottish Charity Awards.
Run annually by the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO), the awards celebrate the best of Scotland’s voluntary sector.
Elaine, of Beatson Cancer Charity, was named Charity Champion.
She has raised more than £300,000 in memory of her daughter Eilidh, who passed away from a rare form of cancer aged just 22.
Speaking of her win, Elaine told the Advertiser: “This has been an incredibly difficult time for all charities and I am honoured to receive this award on behalf of Beatson Cancer Charity, #TeamEilidh, my husband Michael and my very special daughter Kerry.
“I believe Eilidh was really looking down on me when I won – Eilidh’s name means ‘Light’ and her light continues to shine through and directs us all in her name.”
Elaine and her family’s fundraising achievements have been instrumental in helping the charity create a new online experience, a fitting legacy in memory of her daughter.
The McHughs’ story has helped bring together many people living in the shadow, and fear, of cancer.
Elaine, who has experienced the painful loss of a child, has personally helped with the development of the services, allowing the charity to reach out to more people who need advice and help. Often, family members are put in touch with support and the charity when it is too late.
Elaine wanted to change this and since 2017 managed to raise, through numerous events and initiatives, an incredible £300,000. Working closely with the policy and communications team, she has created a solution that proactively connects services with people facing cancer, at every stage of their journey.
In turn she has invested and revitalised Beatson Cancer Charity’s website and digital experience and introduced a brand-new connected support platform feature called My Light.
CEO Martin Cawley is in awe of Elaine’s determination and is ever-so thankful for her help with the progression of the charity.
He said: “I can’t think of a more wonderful way to honour Elaine.
“She has positively influenced the shape of our digital resources and provided inspiration for others at a time facing trauma and tragedy.
“She developed #TeamEilidh and raised an incredible amount of money to help to transform our charity.”
