Chapelhall man to take on Highlander Triathlon with friends - just over a year after finishing stage 3 stomach cancer treatment
A determined Chapelhall man is set to take on the Highlander Triathlon alongside 16 of his friends - just over a year after finishing treatment for stage 3 stomach cancer. Michael Gallacher, 38, was diagnosed with the illness in October 2023 and following eight rounds of chemotherapy and a total gastrectomy - the complete removal of his stomach - he was given the all-clear in May last year. This Saturday, May 3, Michael is tackling one of Scotland's toughest one-day endurance events - a four-mile kayak, 51-mile cycle, and climb of Buachaille Etive Mòr in Glencoe - all to raise funds for Beatson Cancer Charity. Michael said: "When I was first diagnosed, I was terrified - but determined. "I had an incredible medical team around me, from surgeons and oncologists to the nurses and physios, and they got me through the hardest moments. "The team at the Beatson were amazing. From the moment I walked through the doors, fear became hope. It never felt like a hospital - it felt human. "The staff are upbeat, kind, and always make you feel like you're more than just a patient. I knew I wanted to give something back.' Each year, Michael and a group of friends take on a physical challenge to raise money for charity. Over the years they've raised more than £40,000 and for their latest intrepid effort, the team gave Michael the honour of choosing the cause. "Last year I couldn't take part because I was going through treatment,' Michael explained. "So, this year, the guys let me choose the charity, and I didn't hesitate. "Beatson Cancer Charity made a huge difference to me - and to so many others." Training for the Highlander has been intense, but Michael says he never lost his focus. He added: "The day after my first chemo session, I did a 45-minute YouTube workout in my living room. "I needed to prove to myself that I could still move. I kept walking, stayed active through chemo, and even got back into the gym before surgery. "The physio team had me on my feet the day after my operation. It was tough - but I knew staying strong would help me get through it." Michael also hopes his story shows that life after a cancer diagnosis is possible - and that people can return to strength and fitness, even after major surgery. He said: "I had a total gastrectomy and I honestly didn't know what recovery would look like. "But I'm back training, I'm feeling strong, and I'm doing things I never thought I'd be able to do again. It's not easy, but it's possible.' Michael and the team will set off on Saturday, beginning with a four-mile kayak, followed by a 51-mile cycle, and finishing with the dramatic ascent of Buachaille Etive Mòr. "There are a few sore bodies during training," he laughed. "But we're all up for it. Some of the guys have totally changed their lifestyle just to be part of it - which has been amazing to see.' So far, Michael and his team have already raised over £7000 for Beatson Cancer Charity - and hope to collect even more ahead of the challenge. To support Michael's Highlander Challenge, and donate to Beatson Cancer Charity, visit here . *Don't miss the latest headlines from around Lanarkshire. Sign up to our newsletters here . And did you know Lanarkshire Live had its own app? Download yours for free here .
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