His first diagnosis was a metastatic alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma - a rare and aggressive soft tissue cancer. Hamish underwent months of gruelling treatment, comprising intensive chemotherapy and radiotherapy, together with a pioneering surgery called rotationplasty, resulting in him having a prosthetic limb. During the following few years Hamish miraculously fought on, living life as best a little
boy should, but with regular checkups and extensive routine medication, primarily to control the longterm side effects of the treatment. Then tragically, in March 2016, now aged 7, Hamish was diagnosed with a DIPG. An aggressive, inoperable tumour within the brainstem, for which there is no cure. This diagnosis was completely unrelated to that in 2011. He underwent 30 sessions of radiotherapy, but this treatment was only palliative to allow him a little more time with his loving family and friends. Hamish passed away peacefully in his mother's arms at home on the 20th February 2017. In 2017 we will start something positive and exciting for Nairn. Throughout Hamish’s illness, we have been truly overwhelmed by the love and support that we have received from so many over the years, particularly from the Community of Nairn. We now feel that it is time to repay our town. Our plan is to develop a special family area for all ages and abilities to enjoy. In doing this we will radiate the love we have for Hamish. It will be a place for all to experience. This will ensure that Hamish’s memory lives on for years to come. We plan to fundraise to make this happen.
