Latest news with #Margaret
Belfast Telegraph
3 hours ago
- Health
- Belfast Telegraph
Belfast woman ‘chuffed to bits' after taking part in landmark trial that ‘could transform cancer treatment'
The CO21 Challenge trial, led by researchers in Northern Ireland and Canada, involved 889 people with colon cancer from six countries, including the UK. The study found a structured exercise routine can reduce the risk of death for people with colon cancer by more than a third. The results, unveiled at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) conference yesterday, could transform how colon cancer is treated around the world, the researchers said. The scientists hope the findings will prompt healthcare providers to integrate exercise plans into routine cancer care. The CO21 Challenge trial, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, found that a structured exercise programme significantly reduced the likelihood of the disease returning and improved overall survival compared with standard advice. After five years, 80% of patients who followed a tailored exercise regime were cancer-free, compared with 74% of those who were offered just health education materials. This means the risk of dying, cancer coming back, or developing a new cancer was 28% lower in the exercise group. After eight years, survival rates were 90% in the exercise group compared to 83% in the health education group, representing a 37% lower risk of death. More than 31,000 people in the UK die from colon cancer every year, according to Cancer Research UK. The study was part-funded by Cancer Research UK's Stand Up To Cancer campaign and carried out in collaboration with the Canadian Cancer Trials Group (CCTG). The three-year programme saw patients supported by physical activity consultants, starting with weekly in-person sessions for the first six months and moving to monthly sessions either in person or online. Activities were tailored to the individual, from brisk walking to gym-based circuit training. Among the patients to benefit from the trial was Margaret Tubridy (69), from north Belfast. Before her cancer diagnosis, she said she had never exercised. Now, five years on, she says she is lifting weights, pole walking and taking part in gym classes twice a week. 'I wanted to take part in the trial to help other people living with cancer,' she said. 'I had never exercised in my life, but with the right support and encouragement I was able to walk more and more. 'From there I started going to classes at the gym and now I do weight training twice a week, pole walking, and I'm in a walking group. I had never been to a gym before, but once I was shown how to use the machines and do the exercises, I loved it. Margaret, who is originally from north Belfast but has lived most of her life in Glengormley, is now retired but worked as a receptionist for Mercedes-Benz for 26 years. 'It's been almost five years since my cancer diagnosis, and if I meet anyone I tell them I am doing great,' she added. 'Taking part in the trial helped me so much. I am stronger, fitter, and my anxiety is better. I never thought at 69 years of age I would be able to do all of this. I am chuffed to bits.' Professor Vicky Coyle, UK lead researcher and clinical professor at Queen's University Belfast, said the study gives 'clear and encouraging' evidence that physical activity can reduce colon cancer mortality. 'We now need to work with policymakers and healthcare providers to embed exercise into treatment plans where appropriate,' she said. Cancer Research UK said the findings should act as a wake-up call for health services, adding it could 'transform clinical practice'. However, Caroline Geraghty, senior specialist information nurse at the charity, said this can only happen 'if health services have the necessary funding and staff to make it a reality for patients'. She added: 'It's important to remember that every cancer journey is different. Starting new activities after treatment can feel overwhelming, and it may not be the right option for everyone. Take things at your own pace and speak to your doctor to discuss what is safe for you.' The researchers said more work is needed to explore the biological mechanisms behind exercise's effect on cancer, but the evidence is already strong enough to prompt urgent action.
The Herald Scotland
a day ago
- General
- The Herald Scotland
Campaigner who pioneered new approach to justice dies
Died: March 28, 2025 Margaret Mills, who has died aged 76, worked tirelessly as a children's champion for the charity Children First for over 54 years until her sudden death. Starting her career in the 1970s as one of the first female inspectors with the Royal Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (RSSPCC), now known as Children First, Margaret dedicated her life to helping children and families. Specialising in supporting children to recover from sexual, emotional and physical abuse at Children First's service in the Scottish Borders, she helped transform the lives of hundreds of children. Margaret pioneered support for child victims required to give evidence in court. This paved the way for Scotland's first Bairns Hoose, a safe space for child victims and witnesses of crime run by Children First, based on the Icelandic Barnahus model, to provide a child-centred approach to justice, care and recovery. The Bairns Hoose approach is now being rolled out across Scotland and is in development in the Scottish Borders. Mary Glasgow, chief executive of Scotland's national children's charity, said: 'Margaret considered it a huge privilege to work with young people and regarded each and every family and young person she connected with as special. 'Margaret was an extraordinary person, and we will all miss her hugely at Children First. She was a dedicated, compassionate advocate for the rights of children, striving to ensure that they had the opportunity to access all the support they needed. 'Her meaningful connection with children meant that for years afterwards many young people chose to stay in touch with Margaret and would reconnect with her for support and encouragement when they needed it. 'Margaret was loved by so many and leaves a lasting legacy behind, having paved the way for Scotland's first ever Bairns Hoose. Read more "She was truly an inspiration to others, devoting her life to securing a brighter future for children who had suffered trauma and abuse.' After leaving school at 15, Margaret – who hailed from Leitholm in the Scottish Borders – worked as a nanny with a family in Edinburgh before undertaking nursery nurse training with Barnardos. Once she was old enough she began working for Barnardos in Essex and Cambridge in children's homes where she was fondly known as the 'Scottish auntie'. On completion of her residential childcare course at Langside College in Glasgow, Margaret embarked on her career as a children's champion with the RSSPCC in 1973 supporting parents to care for their children. At that time the RSSPCC had the duty and power to investigate and prosecute incidents of child abuse and all male RSSPCC staff were inspectors, and female staff were 'women visitors'. Margaret moved back to the Borders in 1973 as an RSSPCC visitor and excelled in the role. She was instrumental in setting up a support group in Galashiels for mothers of pre-school children who needed help. In 1976 she was promoted and became one of the first female RSSPCC inspectors, moving into a lead role in the field of child protection and family assessment. By 1980 she had started another parents support group in Hawick. These groups gave Margaret and her colleague and lifelong friend Bill Dunbar the inspiration to set up the Ettrick Family Resource Centre in Selkirk in 1990. This laid the foundation for today's Children First service in the Scottish Borders which has supported thousands of children and families over the years. Margaret and Bill responded to calls from the public for support with their children's wellbeing 24 hours a day, seven days a week. From then on, Margaret continued to help children to recover from unthinkable trauma and trailblazed support for child victims required to give evidence in court, leading to Scotland's first Bairns Hoose. Margaret played an active role in her community, running the creche at Kelso North Parish Church for many years. She was also president of Broomlands Scottish Women's Rural Institute. Her contribution to the wellbeing of children and young people was recognised in January 2012 when she was awarded an MBE in the New Year Honours List for her services to children and young people in Scotland. She is survived by her sister Ella, two nieces and their families. At The Herald, we carry obituaries of notable people from the worlds of business, politics, arts and sport but sometimes we miss people who have led extraordinary lives. That's where you come in. If you know someone who deserves an obituary, please consider telling us about their lives. Contact
Daily Record
a day ago
- Daily Record
Emma Caldwell's mum vows to continue fight for justice 20 years after daughter's brutal murder
Speaking exclusively to the Sunday Mail following the 20th anniversary of Emma's death Margaret has said she can't wait any longer for the truth which she believes many have never wanted to be revealed. Emma Caldwell's mum has vowed to uncover the truth behind why her daughter's killer was left free to rape and terrorise women for almost two decades. Iain Packer picked up Emma in Glasgow in 2005 and drove her 41 miles to Limefield Woods in Biggar, Lanarkshire, where he strangled her. Her body was found the following month by a dog walker. But it wasn't until 19 years later that Packer was brought to justice due botched investigations by police and prosecutors, which focused on other suspects despite the overwhelming evidence pointing to him as the killer. Following Margaret's relentless fight for her answers, the Scottish Government ordered an independent Public Inquiry into what went wrong with the original investigation. However, it took ministers a year to appoint Scottish high court judge Lord Scott to head the forthcoming probe into Police Scotland's bungled handling of the investigation with still no start date set as yet. Speaking exclusively to the Sunday Mail following the 20th anniversary of Emma's death, Margaret, 77, has said she can't wait any longer for the truth which she believes many have never wanted to be revealed. She said: "We been fighting for 20 years for justice for Emma but I will never give up, not now, not tomorrow, not ever. We had some justice with Packer being convicted but there is still a very long tale to be told. 'Packer was given a green light to go on to attack all these women. Why didn't they stop him? What took so long to look at him properly? We also know documents relating to the original case were destroyed or lost. "Where have they gone and who knew about them? Someone or some people somewhere have wanted certain details to stay hidden for whatever reason. "We need to know what those reasons are because it left him free to continue his horrific campaign of abuse against so many women. I need this inquiry to go ahead now as I desperately need to know what went wrong. Who decided to look the other way?" Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. Evil Packer, 52, was jailed for life after being found guilty of the murder of 27-year-old Emma and 32 other charges including 11 rapes and multiple sexual assaults against a total of 22 women in March last year. The conviction brought to an end one of Scotland's longest cold cases in which a litany of mistakes were made. Packer was interviewed six times by detectives as part of the investigation. But he was not arrested or charged until 2022, despite admitting he had driven Emma to the remote spot. The Sunday Mail named Packer as the key forgotten suspect in April 2015. Strathclyde Police had originally investigated Emma's murder and were focused on four Turkish men. However, the case against them collapsed following a £4million investigation. Crown office officials had then gone to the hospital bed of Margaret's husband William, who was dying from cancer, to tell the family the men were no longer suspects. Margaret says her husband died not ever knowing what happened to his daughter. Margaret, now a gran of three, said: 'During the trial, Packer sat in that court and said of his police interview, 'They let me go. I could just get up and go home.' "This guilty man, I want to know who told him to go home that day? The day before my husband died they came to see us and told us there was no prosecution against the Turkish men and it probably wasn't them. 'I remember a member of the police force in that room saying 'yes in their opinion.' My husband died not knowing what happened to his daughter and who was responsible. I believe all of these failures were down to a group of people, not just one person. 'Are there people out there terrified for all this information to finally come out? We need them exposed, we need it all out in the open and the public needs to know how it works.' Packer was sentenced to life with a minimum term of 36 years in February 2024. A Sunday Mail investigation at the time spoke to current and former sex workers. They claimed corrupt police were regular clients on the streets of Glasgow around the same time as Packer. The ex-wife of killer Packer also revealed how he throttled her with a cord – nine years before murdering Emma the same way. She told how police probing Emma's murder in 2005 had failed to act when she told them about their violent relationship in 2007. Margaret said: 'We were naive, we only knew that Emma was on heroin, we had no knowledge she was on the streets. "These girls, who weren't out there by choice and carry a lot of shame, later bravely stood up in court which must have been hard and opened up their difficult lives to everyone. "But because of what these vulnerable girls did they were initially ignored. There were so many missed opportunities to save Emma. Unfortunately we can't save her. But we can find out what happened. I loved Emma beyond all measure." Justice Secretary Angela Constance said: 'I announced a Public Inquiry into the investigation of Emma's murder to provide answers for her family and the other victims involved. "They deserve nothing less.." A spokesperson for the Crown Office said it was 'fully supportive of the inquiry and will contribute as appropriate in due course'. Police Scotland have since apologised to Emma's family and his other victims for how the original inquiry was handled, saying they were 'let down'. A Police Scotland spokesperson added: 'We will fully support any further police investigation into the murder of Emma Caldwell and also the work of the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service to identify an external force to carry out this significant piece of work.' Lawyer Aamer Anwar, who is representing Margaret and her family, demanded those who helped Packer evade justice now be held to account. He said: 'Emma's family believe it is not only Iain Packer who evaded justice for nearly 19 years, but police officers who betrayed the most fundamental duty of all to protect life. 'Officers stand accused of sabotaging an investigation, persecuting officers who had gone after Packer, spying on journalists, and perpetuating a lie for some 19 years. 'For far too long those responsible for gifting a killer his freedom, have remained in the shadows, now they must face the glare of public scrutiny – the victims of Packer deserve nothing less. "Over 20 years, first as a lawyer for one of the men falsely accused of Emma's murder and then, the last 10, as Margaret's lawyer, I then saw the devastation wreaked on a mother, but she never gave up, nor will she. "Whatever the job, addictions or vulnerabilities of Emma Caldwell or the 22 women who gave evidence, it should never have been used as a justification for sexual violence or to treat them as a second-class citizens. " Emma Caldwell mattered, the women who spoke up mattered, and the many whose voices which were never heard mattered.'
Time of India
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Loretta Swit, Emmy-winning actress who brought soul to ‘Hot Lips' Houlihan on ‘MASH' passes away at 87
, the Emmy-winning actress who brought humanity and strength to one of television's most memorable characters on 'MASH', has passed away at the age of 87. Her publicist, Harlan Boll, confirmed to Variety that Loretta passed away from natural causes at her home in New York City on Friday. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Swit's portrayal of Major Margaret 'Hot Lips' Houlihan was a cornerstone of the iconic wartime dramedy, which aired from 1972 to 1983. What began as a one-dimensional, strict character evolved into a deeply complex and sympathetic figure, largely thanks to Swit's own efforts and vision for the role. From Stereotype to Soulful Character Initially introduced as a rigid and often mocked army nurse involved with the weak Frank Burns, Houlihan was seen more as comic relief than a fully developed character. But as the series progressed, so did Margaret — and it was Loretta Swit who led that change. Alan Alda, her 'MAS*H' co-star, honoured her legacy in a heartfelt post on X (formerly Twitter): 'Loretta was a supremely talented actor… She worked hard to show the writers how they could turn the character from a one-joke sexist stereotype into a real person.' He recalled the turning point when scripts began referring to her as 'Margaret' instead of 'Hot Lips', a shift that reflected Swit's commitment to giving her character depth and dignity. Episodes like 'The Nurses', 'Mail Call Again', and 'Comrades in Arms' revealed a woman struggling with loneliness, leadership, and love. Swit's portrayal of Margaret's emotional moments and quiet confessions struck a powerful chord with audiences, forever reshaping the character's legacy. A Career Beyond the 4077th After 'MASH' ended, Swit remained active in television and film throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now She starred in the Emmy-nominated holiday movie 'The Best Christmas Pageant Ever' (1983), tackled intense themes in 'The Execution' (1985), and made guest appearances in classics like 'Murder, She Wrote' and 'Diagnosis: Murder'. She also appeared in films ranging from action-comedies like 'Freebie and the Bean' to political satire such as 'Whoops Apocalypse'. Swit's versatility extended to the stage, where she appeared in Broadway productions like 'Same Time, Next Year' and 'The Mystery of Edwin Drood'. She even showcased her musical talents in adaptations like 'It's a Bird… It's a Plane… It's Superman!' Beyond the Screen: Advocate for Animals and Compassion Off-camera, Loretta Swit was equally passionate about animal rights. She founded the SwitHeart Animal Alliance, an organisation dedicated to raising awareness and funds for animal welfare causes. Her dedication earned her numerous awards, including the prestigious Betty White Award from Actors and Others for Animals. Born Loretta Jane Szwed in Passaic, New Jersey, to Polish immigrant parents, Swit defied the odds by pursuing her dream of acting from the age of seven. After studying at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and training with Gene Frankel, she built a career grounded in both talent and determination.
Daily Record
2 days ago
- Sport
- Daily Record
Johnstone Burgh fan opens up on special connection with club ahead of Junior Cup final
Margaret Hamilton bonded with the club when she was undergoing radiotherapy treatment after being diagnosed with breast cancer two years ago. A Johnstone woman whose mum was part of the celebrations the last time Burgh won the Junior Cup has told how the club was therapy to her during cancer treatment. Margaret Hamilton was given the devastating news two years ago that she had breast cancer and required radiotherapy. During this time, the 61-year-old looked for ways to escape the ordeal – and that is where her love of Burgh blossomed. The florist, who runs All About Flowers on Thorn Brae, had to close down her shop while undergoing treatment but felt the West of Scotland League Premier Division side were there to support her. And tomorrow, all roads lead to Broadwood Stadium in North Lanarkshire as Burgh attempt to end a 57-year wait for the famous trophy by beating Lowland League outfit Tranent in the final. 'The club were fantastic,' Margaret told the Paisley Daily Express. 'On a Saturday when I used to finish in the shop, or at the time that I didn't have the shop open due to my treatment, I would go up, get a pie, get a cup of coffee and sit and watch the team. 'And yes, I met my own friends there, but I made a lot of new friends as well and the boys are just fantastic at the club, they really are.' Ahead of Sunday's showpiece, Margaret made sure everyone who passed her shop would know who she was cheering on. From bunting surrounding the shop to flags covering the length of the window, the big Burgh fan nailed her colours to the mast. Also on display were two items she holds dear – a Burgh top and scarf which were bought for her when she completed radiotherapy. But one moment that sticks with Margaret is when she was shown a picture of her mum celebrating lifting the trophy at the after-party of Peter Donald's Burgh team winning the Junior Cup in 1968. 'My mum had the cup on her head in 1968 when they won in the final,' she revealed. 'She was manageress down at the British Legion in Johnstone so she still remembers the day, the town, the atmosphere. I mean, at that time, we were a big engineering town in Johnstone as well. 'My papa worked in Clifton and Bairds, my dad worked in Wickman and Lang, so it was a real good community we had and now I just feel that community's always been there; it's coming back a wee bit more.' Burgh last reached the final in 2000 but lost to East of Scotland League side Whitburn Juniors on penalties. 'I remember 25 years ago when we lost unfortunately,' recalls Margaret. 'This time I've got a good feeling.' Non-league football has grown in popularity due to the price of football in the SPFL and Margaret says that is a big reason why she supports her local team, much like her dad, Archie, and her mum, Margaret. 'It's getting out in the fresh air as well and it's just having a laugh,' she added. 'You'll always get a laugh at Junior football because it's not like going to see the big clubs. 'It's all character and you can say things there and you're guaranteed to come away with a smile on your face all the time – even if your team hasn't won. But that won't be the case on Sunday!' The town itself has been showing its support for the team ahead of tomorrow. Colin Boyd, a fan who has followed the Keanie Park outfit since he was a young boy, says it is an occasion he is relishing. He said: 'I have been supporting the club for over 30 years and I was at the last final. What a day it was, the build-up to the game was truly amazing and everyone getting behind the team was great to see. 'Sunday means everything to not only me but the club. From where the club have been the last few years, building them back up to the top league, it is so great.' Retired duo Stevie McSorley and Fraser Dominics are also enthusiastic supporters. Both have chosen to volunteer at Burgh to remain close to not only their team but also fellow fans. Stevie said: 'Over the last few years, there have been a lot of new faces, new people and I've also made new friends. I am retired and my wife still works so coming up here is great.' Fraser, who helps maintain the grounds outside the stadium, added: 'I stay near the ground and word had got about that the club were looking for people to help so I did. 'Sunday means a lot to the club and it is an occasion that we are looking forward to. Junior football is growing and the supporters here can see what the club are doing.' Johnstone councillor and avid Burgh supporter Andy Steel will also be supporting his team this weekend. He said: 'Other than Scotland games, the only matches I go to nowadays is the Burgh. It's affordable and the quality in Junior football is miles better than it used to be. 'I've enjoyed watching the Burgh make big steps over the last couple of seasons and this is a big landmark moment on that journey. 'The players, the committee and the fans deserve this day. There are big plans for the future around Keanie Park but this is happening here and now and it would be fantastic if they could win. Mon eh Burgh!' Fans are encouraged to gather in Johnstone's Houston Square tomorrow between 1pm and 1.15pm, and wear red, to wave the team off on their journey to Cumbernauld. Tickets and merchandise will be on sale at Keanie Park until 12.30pm today – but there is a cash gate in operation at Broadwood for the final for anyone who hasn't bought a brief yet. The game will be screened live on BBC ALBA. Kick-off is 4.05pm.
