Macmillan Cancer Support Scotland

19/08/2026

There are no silly questions when you have cancer. We believe that whatever you're facing, you deserve help and support and where you live shouldn't change that.

Yesterday, the Scottish Cancer Incidence Data was released by Public Health Scotland: https://publichealthscotland.scot/publications/cancer-incidence-in-scotland/cancer-incidence-in-scotland-to-december-2024/

We're still seeing that people living in the most deprived areas of Scotland are more likely to be diagnosed with cancer than those living in the least deprived areas.

We know someone's experience of cancer can be made much worse simply because of who they are or where they live. But cancer care shouldn't come with conditions. Everyone should have access to the right information, treatment and support, wherever they live.

If you, or someone you love, has been diagnosed with cancer, we're here to help. No question is too big, too small or too silly. Find information and support through our website or on our support line at 0808 808 00 00💚

10/08/2026

This story covers the topic of su***de that some people may find difficult to watch.

“My cancer diagnosis was affecting me more mentally than it was physically.”

Spending time outdoors can have a powerful impact on our health and wellbeing.

We spent the day at Yarm Wellness Centre, one of our community partners, with the National Garden Scheme to celebrate an incredible milestone – the National Garden Scheme has raised £20 million for people affected by cancer.

From garden visits and homemade cakes to coffee and conversations, every donation helps us continue to be there for people living with cancer.

A huge thank you to the National Garden Scheme and everyone who has supported this amazing partnership over the years.

Visit the National Garden Scheme website to find a garden near you this summer.

If you need support, we are here for you. Our Support Line is open every day (8am - 8pm) on: 0808 808 00 00. You can also join our Online Community, which has over 80,000 members and speak to others going through a similar experience 💚

24/07/2026

💚 40 years of fundraising, friendship and making a difference 💚

This year, the Ettrick Valley Macmillan Committee is celebrating an incredible 40 years of fundraising.

The committee was started by Anne Turnbull in 1986 after she lost both her parents to cancer. Anne cared for them at home with support from Macmillan nurses, and that experience inspired her to help ensure other people living with cancer and their families could receive the same vital support. Today Anne continues to support Macmillan events, alongside volunteering at her local charity shop, baking and Scottish country dancing.

The committee’s anniversary has been an opportunity to recognise the remarkable long service of all the committee members who have given so much over the years, especially Anne (pictured centre) and her husband George (pictured centre left). To mark this special milestone, the committee held a 40th Anniversary Garden Party at Bowhill House in the Scottish Borders on Sunday, with a picnic and Pimm’s on the lawn, by kind permission of the Duke of Buccleuch.

It was attended by an ever-supportive community, helping them continue to add to their cumulative total of over £220,000. Every ticket, donation and show of support helped the committee continue what Anne started all those years ago: making sure people living with cancer do not have to face it alone.

09/07/2026

A huge shoutout to Rob (left) and Hadley (right) from Carlisle, who are cycling from Land’s End, all the way to Sumburgh Airport in Shetland to raise money for us and a range of other incredible cancer charities.

Their challenge, 1000 Miles Against Cancer is in memory of their colleague and close friend, Kieran Clark, who sadly died from prostate cancer last November at just 38 years old.

After his diagnosis, Kieran encouraged his male colleagues to get a PSA test. One of his workmates, Paul, took that advice and, despite having no symptoms discovered he had prostate cancer. He has since had surgery and credits Kieran with potentially saving his life.

Now Rob and Hadley are taking on this epic ride to honour Kieran, support Paul, and raise vital awareness of prostate cancer.

Every mile they pedal is helping make sure more people affected by cancer get the support they need. 💚

Learn more about their incredible challenge: https://www.givewheel.com/fundraising/13386/1000-miles-against-cancer/

30/06/2026

We are almost entirely funded by supporters like you 💚

Your generosity is vital to make sure more people living with cancer can access care that’s right for their needs.

Here’s how your donation makes all the difference:

📍 More cancer care where you are.

We’re extending our cancer training to a wider range of healthcare professionals and we’re working with community organisations and high-street partners to give people more ways to access vital cancer support locally.

🌳 Tackling inequality in rural communities.

We are working with the Farming Communities Network, so that more people in rural communities can overcome challenges with accessing crucial cancer support.

📞The power of personal support.

Your generosity means we can support people through services such as our Support Line, which offers free and confidential support to people living with cancer, family and friends.

🤝 Challenging barriers to cancer support.

Your donations help us work with people who have first-hand cancer experiences, helping many transform pain into purpose.

If you use PayPal to shop online, you can set us as your favourite charity and choose to donate £1 each time you check out with PayPal. Find out more here: https://www.paypal.com/uk/fundraiser/charity/15796

03/06/2026

Greene King World Cup Macmillan Collections - Volunteers needed! ⚽

We’re looking for volunteers to join the team between 14th –27th June in selected Greene King pubs, helping with bucket collections ahead of England and Scotland’s World Cup matches.

Collections will take place between 5pm–7pm and are a great way to support people living with cancer while enjoying the matchday buzz!

Find out more and sign up here: https://volunteering.macmillan.org.uk/opportunities

29/05/2026

What an incredible achievement🏃‍♂️🎉

Huge congratulations to Kenny Boyle on completing this year's Edinburgh Marathon being the official starter, and fundraising for us all at the same time.

It’s been brilliant seeing you share the highs, the lows and your reason why. Opening up about how cancer has impacted your life and loved ones is the kind of honesty that makes a real difference and has helped to bring people with you every step of the way.

Finishing 26.2 miles is no small feat, and raising so much in the process is really something to be proud of. Your support means we can keep being there for people living with cancer. We can’t thank you enough. Also a special shout for everyone who supported Kenny during training and on the day of the marathon!

Rest those legs Kenny, you’ve earned it🏅💚

For more information: https://www.justgiving.com/page/kenny-boyle-1

We do whatever it takes to support people with cancer - emotionally, physically and financially.

29/04/2026

After an unexpected cancer diagnosis, Devon is taking on the London Marathon as her next big challenge.

“I was about to cycle from Land’s End to John O’Groats with a couple of friends. I wasn’t expecting the diagnosis at all as I’d had no symptoms. It was a huge shock. Small lumps in my neck were picked up during an MRI on my head for a separate issue.

“After a follow-up biopsy, I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer in 2024. Two consultants explained the cancer and the treatment process, and then a nurse took me through the Macmillan resources, answering my many questions about surgery, follow-up treatment, and the support available. I was really grateful to have that support, and to be able to follow up with further questions.

“The run-up to surgery felt daunting. It felt like a big operation, and I was uneasy about the incision in my neck. But I also found it really hard knowing how and when to communicate the diagnosis to my friends and family. ‘Cancer’ is a big word and can trigger very different reactions in different people.

“My close friends and family were amazing. On that cycle from Land’s End to John O’Groats over 12 days, I told them, and they were incredibly supportive. It was a big physical challenge but it gave me space to process everything. We even laughed about giving my thyroid one last tour of the UK before it was removed.

“Recovery after surgery was difficult physically, limited movement and then a week of radioactive iodine where I was stuck inside, isolated and so far from 'normal' life. So to be out running marathons a year later feels amazing.

“It’ll be my first road marathon and probably the busiest running event I’ll ever do.

“I’ve really enjoyed the fundraising side of being part of Team Macmillan. I feel motivated to train well and finish proudly. Writing my fundraising page really made me reflect on how far I have come and how lucky I am to be on the other side of my cancer journey.”

28/04/2026

“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.”

24/04/2026

Setting off next month, Alex is taking on an amazing challenge, walking around 1,250 miles from John O’Groats to Land’s End. He’s doing it in memory of his mum, and to give something back to Macmillan for the support they gave his dad and his whole family during such a tough time.

“I feel drawn to this madcap adventure for many different reasons: the anticipation of the challenge, the need to take a physical and mental life break, and to raise money for causes that are close to my heart. Macmillan supported my mum, and my dad too, in ways I only fully realised later, and I’ll always be grateful for that.”

You can find out more about Alex's challenge and help us make sure no one faces cancer alone 💚 https://www.givewheel.com/fundraising/12465/alexs-big-walk-south/