Macmillan Cancer Support Scotland

“Humbling, challenging, rewarding” are the words Lee used to describe his marathon training journey. Running in aid of his brother Jamie, Lee shared what this year’s London Marathon means to him.

“Sadly, we lost my brother Jamie to colorectal cancer in March 2024 after a four-year struggle. He fought with such strength and bravery, enduring chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and major surgeries, all while bringing up his two young boys.

“Jamie was loved by everyone who knew him. His resilience and bravery were so admirable to all of us. Jamie was my only sibling, so our children have grown up to be the best of friends. Jamie’s boys are an absolute testament to him, and I really want to make them proud on the day too.

“Jamie is forever 40, and 2026 is the year of my 40th birthday, so I want to run this as a tribute to him.

“Taking on this challenge is one of the best decisions I could have made. It has brought comfort to our family, his friends, and even brought our local community together.

“Running has helped me so much over the last couple of years. Getting out of the house and clearing my head has been a coping mechanism and has really helped me through my grief. Emotionally, it’s been a rollercoaster, but thinking of Jamie’s experiences motivates me to keep going. Whenever I find myself struggling, I remind myself that nothing will compare to the pain and emotional distress Jamie, and so many others, have had to endure.

“Jamie’s first year of treatment was during the pandemic, which made everything even harder with isolation and reduced services, but Macmillan were there every step of the way. He built a close bond with his specialist nurse, who supported him and our family with coping mechanisms and emotional care. They treated him with dignity and respect, even in his final weeks. I cannot express enough how grateful we are for their support, which is why I wanted to fundraise and raise awareness for such an amazing charity.

“Having seen what Jamie went through, my outlook on life has changed. Life is unpredictable, and you never know what awaits you, so embrace each day, cherish every moment, and create lasting memories with your loved ones. Seeing my family after I finish will be the highlight for me, they are what keeps me going.”

Cancer care in Scotland should work for everyone. But right now, too many people are waiting too long for answers, treatment and support.

Today, we have published our manifesto ahead of the May 2026 Scottish Parliament elections. It sets out what needs to change so people with cancer get the care they deserve.

We know that cancer care in Scotland is at a critical moment. We are three years into a ten-year cancer strategy but have seen little change and even less delivery. Delays are too long, and where you live can shape the care you receive.

We hear about nurses going above and beyond to support people through cancer. But we also hear about long waits, uncertainty, and people feeling left in the dark during and after treatment.

Cancer care in Scotland is at a turning point. The next Scottish Government must take bold action to make care fairer and improve how the system works for everyone.

We are calling for:

🟢 Action to tackle inequalities in cancer care

🟢 Clear steps to reduce differences in treatment and care across Scotland

🟢 Major improvements in cancer data and digital infrastructure

🟢 A renewed commitment to person centred care

Read the full manifesto here: https://brnw.ch/21x0OEQ

If you or a loved one needs help to live as fully as possible with cancer, whatever the question or need, big or small, Macmillan is here to provide reassurance, information, and support to help you right now. For information, support or just someone to talk to, call 0808 808 00 00 or visit our website.