Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser
Family say thanks
Cancer research boost
Charity champions the McGuigans have hailed the “invaluable support” of the community as they took their fundraising grand total to an awe-inspiring £84,488 in 15 years.
The Plains family, led by husband-and-wife team John and Maureen, have been doing their bit for cancer research programmes at the Paul O’Gorman centre, based at Glasgow University, since 2003.
That was the year John received a “life- changing” successful bone marrow transplant from donor brother Jamie after being diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukaemia.
The McGuigans previously raised funds for the centre by taking part in an annual “bikeathon”, from Glasgow to Clydebank and back again, for 12 years – before switching to a disco, fun night and buffet in their home village’s St David’s hall.
Around 150 people turned out for this year’s event and helped the McGuigans collect an impressive £4157.
A grateful Maureen told the Advertiser: “I just can’t get over people’s kindness and generosity; Plains has a wonderful community who really rise to the challenge of helping others.
“To raise more than £4000 again is absolutely wonderful.
“We had a fantastic night with raffle and hamper prizes and people dancing the night away.
“Everyone had a ball and we’d like to thank anyone who contributed to the final total for their invaluable support ; with special thanks to Speyside Cooperage for their £500 cheque.”
Maureen added: “We get a lot of feedback from the Paul O’Gorman centre and have visited the venue to see the wonderful work being carried out.
“It’s amazing to see the team there in action; John wouldn’t be here without the centre and we will never forget that.”