The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
Need for greater awareness of brain tumours to be debated
Tragedy has been turned into something positive
MSPS are to discuss the need for greater awareness of brain tumours.
A Holyrood debate on December 7 will highlight the tragedy of Dunfermline’s Mark Richardson, who died in 2016 of an undiagnosed brain tumour, aged only 32.
MSP Alexander Stewart has tabled a motion to recognise the severe challenges faced by many patients.
The motion, supported by 50 MSPS, explains brain tumours are the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under 40.
The Mid Scotland and Fife Conservative MSP is uniting with the Brain Tumour Charity to highlight the devastating impact of the condition on the lives of more than 11,000 people who are diagnosed every year.
Shona Richardson, wife of Mark and one of the charity’s community fundraisers, said: “Mark’s sudden death was a complete shock to all of us and looking back, I initially thought Mark didn’t show any symptoms.
“He suffered from a stiff neck, tiredness and a bleed in his left eye prior to his death.
“Had I known that these symptoms combined could have been a brain tumour, we may have been able to identify this before we lost him.”
She said the debate was a real opportunity for politicians to make a difference.
Mr Stewart has commended the fundraising efforts of Mr Richardson’s family, friends and colleagues who have raised more than £80,000 for the charity.
He said: “After hearing of the experience of my constituent Mark Richardson and understanding the devastating consequences of a late or inaccurate diagnosis, I wanted to use my influence as a member of the Scottish Parliament to further this cause and to support brain tumour patients wherever I can.”
The charity’s chief executive, Sarah Lindsell, said: “To defeat brain tumours we need the support of politicians across the UK, and we’re pleased to see that so many MSPS have recognised the importance of our cause.”