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Beatson Cancer Charity is being supported this Christmas by Julie McCarthy, a mum of three teenagers, who is sharing her story as part of the charity’s Bauble Appeal to help bring care, reassurance and hope to others affected by cancer.
Julie, from Motherwell, was diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2024 after suffering a seizure while driving, which led to a car crash and an emergency admission to hospital. Further scans confirmed the diagnosis.
She said: “I remember that day so clearly. I felt like I was in a tunnel, completely on my own.
A brain tumour sounded really frightening. I didn’t even realise at first that it was cancer – it was a huge shock.”
Julie underwent surgery in April 2024, which successfully removed more than 95 per cent of the tumour. She recovered well and was able to return home just days later.
Her connection to Beatson Cancer Charity came through her cousin Chris, who had been treated there several years earlier and encouraged her to visit the Wellbeing Centre.
“He told me, ‘Julie, it’s a special place – you’ll love it.’ The Wellbeing Centre really helped me. From the minute I arrived, I felt such a warm welcome. It’s a lovely place to sit, relax and detach yourself from all the worries that come with treatment.”
Julie says the support extended beyond her own care and made a real difference to her family too.
“Beatson Cancer Charity have helped my family by always being there – at the end of the phone, whenever we needed it. I know the staff by their first names, and they know me and my family by ours. That sense of familiarity and the happy atmosphere has meant so much to us.”
As a primary school teacher, Christmas has always been a special time for Julie, filled with school nativity plays, carol concerts and festive excitement. At home, the season centres on family traditions.
“On Christmas morning, I film my three children coming down the stairs to open their presents. We go to Mass with our big extended family and then spend the day together. It’s all about being together and appreciating that time.”
This Christmas, Julie is encouraging others to support Beatson Cancer Charity’s Bauble Appeal, which helps fund vital wellbeing and support services for people and families across the west of Scotland.
Julie added: “If you can, please support the Beatson Cancer Charity Bauble Appeal this year. Thank you.”
Rachel Mullin, Individual Giving Officer at Beatson Cancer Charity, said:
“We’re incredibly grateful to Julie for sharing her story so openly. As a mum of three, her words highlight how important it is for families to have a warm and reassuring place to turn to during treatment. By supporting the Bauble Appeal, you’ll help us continue offering care and comfort to people like Julie and their families, not just at Christmas but throughout the year.”
Beatson Cancer Charity’s Bauble Appeal raises crucial funds to support patients and families across the west of Scotland during the festive season and beyond.
You can find out more and donate online by clicking here. You can also donate by texting BAUBLE to 70580 to give £10, or by calling 0141 212 0505.
