Beatson charity set up support website in memory of 22-year old Hamilton woman
Eilidh McHugh passed away in March 2017 following a short battle.
Last updated 17th Apr 2020
A support website for cancer patients has been set up in memory of a Hamilton woman who died three years ago.
Eilidh McHugh was just 22-years old when she passed away following a short battle with an aggressive cancer.
The Beatson charity named the site 'My Light' after her, which is Eilidh's name in Gaelic.
The new website includes a personalised digital experience for cancer patients and families. The support space will help vulnerable patients and their families who are self-isolating or unable to visit the hospital during the coronavirus lockdown period and beyond.
Since her death, Eilidh’s parents Mick and Elaine, her sister Kerry and many friends and family members have raised over £250,000 for Beatson Cancer Charity.
Elaine McHugh said: "As a family we are delighted at the launch of the new Beatson Cancer Charity website. This new website exists because of the funds raised by Team Eilidh. This is a tribute to our exceptional daughter ensuring her legacy lives on.
"When Eilidh died, our world was rocked. Fundraising for Beatson Cancer Charity has helped us heal as a family and it is amazing knowing the money raised will go towards supporting more cancer patients and their families through what can be the darkest time of their lives – it will help many to feel better, stronger and more informed.
"Eilidh lit up every room she entered, and we are so proud that she will be remembered in this very special way."
Martin Cawley, Beatson Cancer Charity CEO said: "Everyone at Beatson Cancer Charity is immensely proud of this new digital experience that is now available to cancer patients throughout Scotland.
"Alongside the McHugh family, we have created something very special. We hope that this project will now actively support people, rather than just provide standard information, and will be a guiding light for online support for people and their families.
"As a result of the COVID 19 public health crisis, Beatson Cancer Charity has had to make significant changes to the way we operate. We are delighted to continue to deliver some of our services where we can in the hospital and digitally via this website.
"This means we can still have a positive impact on patient’s lives and support our NHS colleagues at the Beatson. We continue to fund Radiographers and Clinical Nurse Specialists who are working harder than ever to provide enhanced care and support to vulnerable cancer patients. We are doing all we can to continue to help our colleagues at The Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre and continue to fund life-saving research. Our fundraising efforts are strained so we still need public support to help keep our services running."
Hear all the latest news from across Glasgow and the West on the hour, every hour, at Clyde 1. Listen on FM, via our Radio Clyde app, on your DAB radio, online at Clyde1.com, or say ‘Play Clyde 1’ on your Smart Speaker.