A heartfelt initiative by NHS staff to raise funds and awareness for cancer support.
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On a chilly afternoon in Inverurie, Scotland, the spirit of community shines brightly as NHS midwife Helen Lovelady and her colleagues at the Community Maternity Unit rally together for a noble cause. Their mission? To support their colleague Alana and her husband Mark Newcombe, who is courageously battling leukemia for the second time.
This initiative not only highlights the strength of their bond but also underscores the importance of community support in times of crisis.
Mark’s battle with leukemia
Mark Newcombe, a 36-year-old father of two, has faced the harrowing challenges of leukemia since he was just 23.
After enduring nearly four years of intense chemotherapy and a stem cell transplant, he was able to celebrate the birth of his children, Jessica and Harvey, against all odds. However, in 2023, the cancer returned, plunging Mark and his family back into the daunting world of hospital visits and treatment plans. Despite the grim prognosis and the need for a bone marrow transplant, Mark remains resolute in his fight.
A community response to a personal challenge
When Mark decided to run 5K every day to raise funds for the Aberdeen cancer charity Friends of Anchor, his doctors advised against it due to health concerns. In a remarkable show of solidarity, Alana and her colleagues at the maternity unit stepped in to take on the challenge for him. Throughout February, they committed to walking or running at least 5K daily, not only to support Mark but also to raise funds for a cause that has been pivotal in their colleague’s journey.
Fundraising success and community involvement
The fundraising efforts quickly gained momentum, with Alana initially setting a goal of £1,000. Within days, they surpassed that target, and now aim for £7,500. The initiative has attracted participation from friends, family, and even the CEO of Friends of Anchor, Sarah-Jane Hogg, who has a personal connection to Mark’s story. This collective effort has sparked discussions about making the challenge an annual event, further solidifying the community’s commitment to supporting those in need.
Raising awareness for stem cell donation
As the team walks through Kellands Park, they not only focus on their physical challenge but also on raising awareness about the importance of stem cell donation. Alana emphasizes that becoming a stem cell donor is a simple process, akin to giving blood, yet it has the potential to save lives. This message resonates deeply, as Mark’s successful transplant in the past was made possible by his brother’s donation, a fortunate circumstance that is not always guaranteed.
The emotional journey of support
For Mark, watching his colleagues take on this challenge is both heartwarming and bittersweet. He expresses gratitude for their efforts, acknowledging the emotional toll of being sidelined during such an important initiative. Despite the physical limitations imposed by his condition, Mark remains optimistic, focusing on his role as a father and the support of his community. His journey serves as a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the power of collective action in the face of adversity.
Join the cause and make a difference
The Inverurie Community Maternity Unit’s initiative is a testament to the strength of community bonds and the impact of collective action. As they continue their daily 5K runs, they invite others to join their cause, whether through participation or donations. Every step taken and every pound raised brings them closer to their goal and reinforces the message that no one has to face their battles alone.
