A message from Hamish

I am Hamish and clearly no stranger to challenges—I've faced cancer not once, but twice!

My first encounter with cancer was at the age of seven when I was diagnosed with a rare medulloblastoma brain tumor.  I underwent surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy and was well looked after at The Christie and Pendlebury Children's Hospital. Whilst this left me with some extra challenges growing up, I have faced these head on and lived life to the full!  I even managed to get my dream job in a cinema. Films and Football are may passion and you will see these themes a lot!

In May 2020, I began feeling a little unwell - tired and generally under the weather. My mum and I had been competing to see who could avoid putting on weight during lockdown, but she grew concerned when she noticed my weight decreasing rapidly while hers was going up.

After a blood test at my GP's office, things escalated quickly. Later that day, we received a call asking me to go to the hospital immediately. Upon arrival, the news hit hard: I had leukemia.

It was a total shock. Suddenly, our lives were turned upside down.  Not only was I coming to terms with having Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL), but it was amid the backdrop of a global pandemic. Consequently, once admitted to Christie's, strict isolation measures meant we couldn't leave our room or have any visitors. We didn't return home or see family, friends, or even our beloved dog, Dexter, for the next six weeks.

The treatment journey has been tough. In addition to the expected side effects such as further weight loss, hair loss, and overall feeling unwell, I've also endured adverse reactions to medication and battled through several infections, leading to numerous hospital admissions.

Despite these challenges, I have been determined to help others. In the past, I've been actively involved in fundraising and volunteer work, including contributing to the launch of Cancer Research's Shine Campaign and advocating for blood donations. This time around, I decided to set myself a series of challenges to raise vital funds for a cause very dear to my heart: the Teenage Cancer Trust (TCT) and The Christie Teenage Young Adult (TYA) service.

I want something exceptional to come out of my battles and want to make a meaningful difference in the lives of other young people battling similar circumstances, ensuring that they receive the support and care they need during their own challenging journeys.

I have chosen to fundraise for Teenage Cancer Trust and the Christie Teenage Young Adult Unit as they play a vital role in supporting teenagers and young adults facing cancer. Having experienced their invaluable work firsthand  I know the profound impact they have on patients' lives. I have completed many challenges since my diagnosis and so far managed to raise over £38,000 for charity.

This latest challenge is my biggest yet!  I am hosting Hamish's MARVELOUS Night Out at The Edwardian in Manchester on 28th September 2024. 

To know more about Hamish click here