Latest news with #OfftheBeatsonTrack
Daily Record
5 days ago
- Health
- Daily Record
Uddingston woman takes on Beatson challenge after stem cell transplant
Natalie Forrest and brother John, who provided the lifesaving donation, will complete the 10km event in Glasgow in honour of their late dad. A courageous Uddingston woman is getting set to take part in a fundraiser for the Beatson cancer charity – only 10 weeks after receiving a lifesaving stem cell transplant in her treatment for leukaemia. Natalie Forrest and younger brother John will be lining up for this month's 10km Off the Beatson Track walk in Glasgow for a second successive year, having taken part in 2024 in memory of their dad John who was cared for at the centre before sadly passing away in January that year. Just eight months later, Natalie was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia and has since undergone a year of gruelling treatment including chemotherapy and multiple complications, culminating in the transplant of stem cells from her sibling in June. The pair are now focusing on taking part in this year's walk on August 24, with John lending a helping hand to ensure Natalie can take part in the fundraiser taking them around the Riverside Museum, Beatson centre and Kelvingrove museum – and the pair being accompanied by a beloved four-legged friend. Natalie said: 'I wasn't sure I'd be well enough to take part this year, but the event means so much to us as a family. So we came up with a plan – John will push me in a wheelchair so I can still be there.' She will be accompanied by toy poodle Nico, who joined the family just two weeks before her dad died, and Natalie added: 'Dad never got the chance to know him properly, but I'm so grateful he got to meet him. Nico has been by my side through grief, hospital stays and recovery. He's part of our story now.' Natalie received a donation of stem cells from John in June as part of her treatment for acute myeloid leukaemia and blast myelodysplasia. She was diagnosed last autumn after her alert local pharmacist – who had herself previously battled leukaemia – urged Natalie to report her symptoms of a sore throat, high temperature and week-long urine infection to her GP, and within days, tests at Wishaw and Monklands hospitals found abnormal cells and led to a shock diagnosis of blood cancer. The 40-year-old has since undergone five rounds of chemotherapy, beginning within two weeks, and has endured multiple complications including seven cardiac arrests and a spell in intensive care, emergency bowel surgery, a stoma and numerous blood transfusions. John previously told how the family are 'eternally grateful to the pharmacist who helped save Natalie's life', and had said of her time in intensive care: 'She was placed on life support and we were told to prepare for the worst. They gave her 48 hours to see if she could survive. 'Somehow Natalie pulled through. We were allowed to bring Nico into intensive care, and she briefly opened her eyes for the first time. The next day she woke up and [went] from strength to strength.' Natalie says the support from Beatson cancer charity has been invaluable both during her treatment, and in the months after losing her dad, saying: 'The bereavement course helped me so much, and it really surprised me how personal the support was. 'When I got emails from people at the charity wishing me luck before treatment, it really stuck with me. It made me feel seen during an incredibly lonely time.' The family is hoping for sunshine this year after washout weather at the event 12 months ago – but say nothing will stop them from showing up to make their way to the finish line in support of the charity and in honour of John senior, having first begun to support the Beatson to give back with gratitude for the care and compassion he had received. Natalie added: 'Off the Beatson Track is such a special day. Everyone there has a story and everyone understands; that sense of community gives you a boost when you need it most.' This year's popular 10km walking event marks 12 years of the fundraiser which brings together thousands of participants united by their shared connection to cancer, turning the west end of Glasgow yellow by turning out in the Beatson's signature colour. More than 20,000 participants have walked over 124,000 miles to date, with finishers at the Riverside Museum able to enjoy the festival village with live entertainment and food stalls, and the event being hosted by STV's Laura Boyd and Heart Scotland's David Farrell. Beatson community fundraising manager Maisie McCormick said: 'We're so grateful to everyone who has taken part over the years – some families have been with us since the beginning, so we hope everyone will get behind the celebrations this year and join us. 'Every single person who signs up is allowing us to support more cancer patients and their families over the years to come, and we cannot thank you enough for that.'
Scotsman
5 days ago
- Health
- Scotsman
Natalie Returns to ‘Off the Beatson Track' Just Weeks After Stem Cell Transplant
40-year old Natalie Forrest from Uddingston is preparing to take part in Off the Beatson Track for the second time - just weeks after receiving a life-saving stem cell transplant from her 39-year old brother, John Forrest. The family will also be joined by their much-loved toy poodle, Nico, as they walk in memory of Natalie's dad and in support of Beatson Cancer Charity. Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... The popular 10K event takes place on Sunday 24 Augustand brings together thousands of participants, united by their shared connection to cancer. For Natalie and her family, this event is deeply personal - symbolising care, love, and hope. Natalie's dad was treated at The Beatson before he sadly passed away in January 2024. The family began supporting the charity shortly after, wanting to give back for the care and compassion he received. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad But only eight months later, Natalie received her own diagnosis of acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) and blast myelodysplasia. With very few symptoms aside from a sore throat, her illness was picked up thanks to a pharmacist's quick thinking. She began treatment almost immediately, undergoing five rounds of chemotherapy, multiple complications including seven cardiac arrests, emergency bowel surgery and a stoma, before finally receiving her stem cell transplant on 10 June 2025 - from her younger brother, John. Natalie's Off the Beatson Track t-shirt 2024 'I wasn't sure I'd be well enough to take part this year,' said Natalie. 'But the event means so much to us as a family. So, we came up with a plan - John will push me in a wheelchair so I can still be there, and Nico is coming along too.' Nico, Natalie's toy poodle, has become a beloved part of the family - and a source of comfort during a very difficult period. Natalie got him just two weeks before her dad passed away. 'He never got the chance to know him properly, but I'm so grateful he got to meet him,' she said. 'Nico has been by my side through grief, hospital stays and recovery - he's part of our story now.' Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Now in its 12th year, Off the Beatson Track has welcomed more than 20,000 participants, who have walked over 124,000 miles – turning Glasgow's west end yellow in support of people facing cancer. The 10k route begins at the Riverside Museum, heading past The Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre on Great Western Road, through Kelvingrove Museum, and returning to finish at the Riverside. Once across the finish line, walkers are encouraged to enjoy the festival village, with live entertainment and food stalls for all ages. Nico, Natalie's job Proudly sponsored by Allied Vehicles, this fun-filled day is fully accessible and suitable for everyone, with music, family entertainment, and a feel-good atmosphere throughout. Maisie McCormick, Community Fundraising Manager at Beatson Cancer Charity, said: 'We're delighted to be celebrating our 12th Off the Beatson Track event this year. We're so grateful to everyone who has taken part over the years – some families have been with us since the beginning, so we hope everyone will get behind the celebrations this year and join us. Every single person who signs up is allowing us to support more cancer patients and their families over the years to come, and we cannot thank you enough for that.' Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Hosted by STV's Laura Boyd and Heart Scotland's David Farrell, this year's Off the Beatson Track promises to be the biggest and brightest yet. Natalie and her brother John Natalie says the support from Beatson Cancer Charity has been invaluable- not only during her treatment, but in the months after losing her dad. 'The bereavement course helped me so much, and it really surprised me how personal the support was,' she said. 'When I got emails from people at the charity wishing me luck before treatment - it really stuck with me. It made me feel seen during an incredibly lonely time.' The family hopes for sunshine this year after last year's washout - but nothing will stop them from showing up to make their way to the finish line. 'Off the Beatson Track is such a special day. Everyone there has a story, and everyone understands. That sense of community - it gives you a boost when you need it most.'
Glasgow Times
30-07-2025
- Health
- Glasgow Times
Juno the dog set to join Glasgow Beatson 10k event
Beatson Cancer Charity's official ambassadog Juno will return to the charity's Off the Beatson Track in Glasgow on Sunday, August 24. She will be accompanied by her owner, Nicole Lowther, who was diagnosed with stage 3 Hodgkin lymphoma at just 17. Read more: I had a lumpectomy, 19 rounds of radiotherapy, and more, but I am still doing this 10k Nicole, Juno, and Bella Beatson (Image: Beatson Cancer Charity) After receiving a stem cell transplant last year, she is now undergoing chemotherapy and immunotherapy following a relapse with Stage 4 Hodgkin lymphoma this May. Despite her health struggles, Nicole is committed to supporting Beatson in recognition of the support it has given her and her family. Nicole said: "Off the Beatson Track is such a monumental event for me. "It's where people gather to feel included, feel love, and feel hope. "It's something really special." Nicole, Juno, and Bella Beatson (Image: Beatson Cancer Charity) Last year, she completed the walk just six months post-transplant, walking with family and friends, including her six-year-old nephew and Juno, who has been a constant source of comfort for Nicole during her treatment. Nicole said: "Juno has been the best support for me. "She's been by my side through it all. "When my partner gets home from work, we love nothing more than to cuddle on the couch, all three of us, and thank our lucky stars for still being here." Nicole, Juno. Bella and Team Beatson (Image: Beatson Cancer Charity) Nicole intends to participate in the walk again this year, planning to be at the start line with Juno, even if she cannot complete the route. The 10k event, sponsored by Allied Vehicles, starts at the Riverside Museum, passing The Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre, Kelvingrove Museum, and finishing at the Riverside. Now in its 12th year, Off the Beatson Track has seen more than 20,000 participants, who have walked over 124,000 miles in support of people with cancer. This year's Off the Beatson Track is expected to be the biggest yet, hosted by Laura Boyd from STV and David Farrell from Heart Scotland. Read more: Charity launched in memory of Ultra Sonic's Mallorca Lee on his birthday Beatson Cancer Charity's Off the Beatson Track 2024 (Image: Beatson Cancer Charity) Maisie McCormick, community fundraising manager at Beatson Cancer Charity, said: "We're delighted to be celebrating our 12th Off the Beatson Track event this year. "We're so grateful to everyone who has taken part over the years – some families have been with us since the beginning, so we hope everyone will get behind the celebrations this year and join us. "Every single person who signs up is allowing us to support more cancer patients and their families over the years to come, and we cannot thank you enough for that."
Daily Record
29-07-2025
- Health
- Daily Record
Renfrewshire mum to take on charity walk again while undergoing cancer treatment
Eilidh Wilson is preparing to participate in Off the Beatson Track on Sunday, August 24. A Renfrewshire mum is set to tackle Off the Beatson Track once again while living with cancer. Eilidh Wilson is preparing to take part in the event on Sunday, August 24, while continuing treatment for secondary breast cancer. The 49-year-old was first diagnosed with breast cancer in October 2018 and says taking part in the charity's flagship 10k walk brings her joy and a sense of connection to the Beatson Cancer Charity community. 'Off the Beatson Track means everything to me,' said Eilidh. 'From the moment I started radiotherapy back in 2018, I have felt like part of The Beatson family. Every nurse, every volunteer, even the physicists and pharmacy team – they have all played a part in helping me stay alive. I will never stop being grateful.' Following her diagnosis, Eilidh, from Kilmacolm, has had a lumpectomy, 19 rounds of radiotherapy and five years of hormone therapy. In November 2023, she was told her cancer had returned and was now secondary. She is currently undergoing chemotherapy every two weeks but is determined to keep showing up for herself and others. Eilidh said: 'I try not to see treatment as a negative – I see it as something to be thankful for. I even joke that treatment day is like my date with Pedro Pascal! 'It is all about mindset. You can find joy in the small things. I start every treatment day with a funky song, pass that energy on to the staff and make sure to thank every single person who is helping me get through it.' The brave mum first completed Off the Beatson Track in 2019 – just after finishing her initial treatment. 'It was roasting hot, I had glitter on my face, Dylan the dog had a bandana, and it was just me and him with a bottle of water,' said Eilidh. 'It was pure joy. That day will stay with me forever.' She has participated several times since, bringing her trademark glitter, colour and positivity with her – no matter the weather. This year, Eilidh will be joined by her sister, dad and partner, who are all walking by her side to show their support. She added: 'That is the beauty of Off the Beatson Track – anyone can do it. It is not about how fast you go, it is about showing up. It keeps your body moving, lifts your mood and brings people together; whether you are walking with your dog, your kids, or your pals.' Now in its 12th year, Off the Beatson Track has seen more than 20,000 participants walk over 124,000 miles – turning Glasgow's west end yellow in support of those affected by cancer. The event will start at the city's Riverside Museum and follow a route past The Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre on Great Western Road then via Kelvingrove Museum before returning to the Riverside Museum to finish. The charity encourages walkers to stay and enjoy the festival village once they have crossed the finish line as there will be entertainment and food stalls. Proudly sponsored by Allied Vehicles, the fun-filled 10k walk is fully accessible and suitable for all ages with family entertainment, music and a feelgood atmosphere throughout the day. Maisie McCormick, community fundraising manager at Beatson Cancer Charity, said: 'We're delighted to be celebrating our 12th Off the Beatson Track event this year. 'We're so grateful to everyone who has taken part over the years – some families have been with us since the beginning so we hope everyone will get behind the celebrations this year and join us. 'Every single person who signs up is allowing us to support more cancer patients and their families over the years to come, and we cannot thank you enough for that.' Eilidh hopes her story will inspire others to sign up and get involved – whether they are living with cancer, supporting someone or simply want to make a difference. She added: 'You are not written off when you are living with secondary cancer. You can still do hard things. You can still live brightly. I always tell my boys to go out and spread their greatness. That is what I try to do, too. 'You do not save your best skirt for a special occasion – you wear it today. You put on your glitter, find your funky song and you keep going.'
Scotsman
29-07-2025
- Health
- Scotsman
Beatson Ambassadog Juno and owner Nicole set to attend Off the Beatson Track
Beatson Cancer Charity's official Ambassadog, Juno, will return to Off the Beatson Track this summer with her devoted owner Nicole Lowther – bringing warmth, resilience, and plenty of wagging tails to the yellow streets of Glasgow on Sunday, August 24. Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Nicole, now 24, was first diagnosed with Stage 3 Hodgkin lymphoma at just 17 years old. After a stem cell transplant last year, she is now undergoing chemotherapy and immunotherapy following a relapse with Stage 4 Hodgkin lymphoma in May 2025. Despite this, Nicole remains determined to support the cause that's stood by her and her family since the very beginning. 'Off the Beatson Track is such a monumental event for me,' Nicole said. 'It's where people gather to feel included, feel love, and feel hope. It's something really special.' Nicole Lowther, Juno, Team Beatson and Bella Beatson Last year, Nicole, from Milton of Campsie, completed the 10k just six months post-transplant, walking with her closest friends and family – including her six-year-old nephew and beloved dog Juno, who went on to be crowned Beatson Cancer Charity's official Ambassadog. Juno has provided constant comfort during Nicole's treatment and recovery and continues to be a source of love and calm when it's needed most. 'Juno has been the best support for me,' Nicole shares. 'She's been by my side through it all. When my partner gets home from work, we love nothing more than to cuddle on the couch, all three of us, and thank our lucky stars for still being here.' Nicole hopes to take part in the walk again this year, but even if she isn't able to complete the route, she'll be at the start line with Juno, cheering on walkers and soaking up the uplifting atmosphere. Now in its 12th year, Off the Beatson Track has welcomed more than 20,000 participants, who have walked over 124,000 miles – turning Glasgow's west end yellow in support of people facing cancer. Nicole Lowther and Juno The 10k route begins at the Riverside Museum, heading past The Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre on Great Western Road, through Kelvingrove Museum, and returning to finish at the Riverside. Once across the finish line, walkers are encouraged to enjoy the festival village, with live entertainment and food stalls for all ages. Proudly sponsored by Allied Vehicles, this fun-filled day is fully accessible and suitable for everyone, with music, family entertainment, and a feel-good atmosphere throughout. Maisie McCormick, Community Fundraising Manager at Beatson Cancer Charity, said: 'We're delighted to be celebrating our 12th Off the Beatson Track event this year. We're so grateful to everyone who has taken part over the years – some families have been with us since the beginning, so we hope everyone will get behind the celebrations this year and join us. Every single person who signs up is allowing us to support more cancer patients and their families over the years to come, and we cannot thank you enough for that.' Hosted by STV's Laura Boyd and Heart Scotland's David Farrell, this year's Off the Beatson Track promises to be the biggest and brightest yet. Off the Beatson Track takes place on Sunday, August 24 and is open to people of all ages and abilities.
