Amputee teenager to lead the Kiltwalk

A TEENAGER who months ago had major cancer surgery is to lead this year’s Kiltwalk in Edinburgh.

Joanna Lamb, 17, was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a rare bone cancer which affects around 20 people each year in Scotland, during her sixth year at Craigmount High School.

She had a leg amputated in February but is determined to undertake the challenge while wearing the Kiltwalk tartan.

Joanna met First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson, Scottish Labour leader Richard Leonard and Scottish Green Party co-convener Patrick Harvie at the Scottish Parliament where the RBS Kiltwalk will leave on September 16.

She said: “Since I was diagnosed with cancer I’ve been doing everything that I can to fundraise for charities that can help people in similar situations.

“When it comes to the Royal Bank of Scotland Kiltwalk it is simple _ if I can do it, then you can do it. Get involved.”

Joanna has already raised more than £16,000 for cancer charities. She will be raising money for It’s Good 2 Give at the Kiltwalk on September 16.

There are three different Edinburgh Kiltwalk routes on September 16: the fivemile Wee Wander, the Big Stroll at 15.5 miles and the 26-mile Mighty Stride. Joanna will open each of the walks.

More than 10,000 walkers have already raised £1.6 million, and a 40% top-up from philanthropist Sir Tom Hunter boosts that figure to £2.6m.

Kiltwalk’s Paul Cooney said: “Joanna’s determination is truly inspirational.”