Sparkling outcome for ‘tea’ to raise funding for Bloodwise and Maggie’s
THERE was a nasty rumour going round that the promise of a glass or two of Prosecco might have had something to do with it, but Lochgilphead Parish Church Hall was jampacked for a special charity event.
In truth, the reason people came from near and far was in support of two causes close to the heart of a wellknown Lochgilphead woman.
Now settled in Edinburgh, Aileen Lamb is an ambassador for Bloodwise, the main UK charity supporting people with all of the 137 identified blood cancers, including leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma.
Aileen, 44, arranged the Prosecco afternoon tea on Saturday February 4 not only to raise cash for Bloodwise but also for Maggie’s Centres, a service offering free practical and emotional support and advice to people affected by cancer, and their families.
Aileen explained: ‘Both of these charities have been fundamental in my journey since being diagnosed with an aggressive blood cancer, acute meyloid leukemia in September 2015. I was unwell for only a couple of weeks before receiving the shock diagnosis of leukemia. I underwent four rounds of intensive chemotherapy, spending almost three months in isolation due to high risk of infection, which was successful.
‘Late in 2015, I was told that my best chance of a lasting cure was a stem cell transplant using a donation from someone matched with me. An 18-year-old UK male – that’s all I know about my donor – selflessly provided me with that chance, and on February 19 last year I underwent a stem cell transplant and began my new chance of life.
‘Without the research undertaken by Bloodwise, the emotional support provided by Maggie’s and the unfailing love and encouragement of my family and friends I would potentially have had a very different outcome to the one I have today.’
Aileen is now back working in her job with Scottish Enterprise, promoting Scotland’s tourism industry.
‘After 12 months’ leave and a phased return process, I’m now working full-time,’ Aileen said. ‘I am now able to travel again; I’ve been in Spain, will shortly travel to the USA and Africa, and have many other plans.’
She added: ‘Fundraising for these two charities allows recipients like me to give something back so that others who will follow in our footsteps can have the same amazing care and support we had.’
Helping on the day to raise the grand total of £1,330 were, among others, were Margaret MacDougall, Shona MacDougall, June Graham, Eilidh Graham, Kay McGhee and Lindsay Caulfield.
‘Thanks to everyone who helped make the day such an enjoyable one,’ Aileen concluded.