The McFarlane family is preparing to cycle 45 miles in memory of mother and wife Lesley, who died from a brain tumour 10 years ago.
Mirren, 24, Caitlin, 21, and their father Kevin, 54, will bike from their home in Cumbernauld to Kirkcaldy, Fife, the hometown of Lesley, on 4th January 2025. The distance represents one mile for every year of her life, which tragically ended at 45.
Lesley was diagnosed with an aggressive glioblastoma (GBM) in February 2014. Despite undergoing surgery and further treatment, she passed away only 11 months later in January 2015. Her youngest child, Caitlin, said: “Mum would probably call us mad for cycling 45 miles in January, but we know she’d be bursting with pride.
“The 10 year milestone feels surreal, but knowing that our efforts could contribute to advancing research and finding a cure brings comfort to a day that’s always emotional.”
The McFarlane clan’s cycling challenge will be in aid of Brain Tumour Research, following the our partnership with Beatson Cancer Charity in Glasgow, where Lesley spent much of her final months. This collaboration aims to launch a new Centre of Excellence in Scotland, scheduled to open in 2025, and will focus on researching GBM tumours.
Eldest daughter Mirren said: “It’s inspiring to know that a Research Centre focused on finding a cure for the brain tumour that Mum had is opening so close to home. We’re deeply committed to supporting this cause, to help prevent other families from going through the unfair experience of losing a loving mother too soon.
“We’re so grateful to everyone who has helped us exceed our fundraising goal, and we can’t wait to ride for Mum and make her proud.”
If you want to support the McFarlane family, donate to us through their JustGiving page. Or, if you’ve been inspired to hold your own event, find out how you can fundraise your own way.
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Published Tuesday 17th December 2024.