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A Glasgow woman is set to join thousands of supporters taking part in the Kiltwalk for Beatson Cancer Charity, a cause that has been part of her life for many years.
Claudia Kirkwood, aged 31, from Glasgow, will take on the Glasgow Mighty Stride on Sunday 26 April alongside her partner, Ewan, walking from Glasgow Green to Loch Lomond as one of the many participants raising funds for the charity this year.
PICTURED: Claudia volunteers with Beatson Cancer Charity's tea trolley service.
Despite it being her first Kiltwalk, Claudia has been preparing in the lead-up to the event.
“We’ve been getting out on longer walks and making sure our boots are well broken in - trying not to think too much about the distance,” she said.
Claudia’s reason for taking part is deeply personal. Her mum, Irene, was first treated at The Beatson in 2009 following a cancer diagnosis, undergoing chemotherapy, radiotherapy and brachytherapy. Following her treatment, Irene and her business, Handbag Parties, regularly organised fundraisers for Beatson Cancer Charity, bringing together her local community with lots of support from Claudia’s sister, Donna.
Years later, after a diagnosis of multiple myeloma, Irene was again supported by Beatson Cancer Charity before sadly passing away in 2024.
PICTURED: Claudia with her mum, Irene and sister, Donna in 2015.
“Even though it’s a cancer centre, they somehow make it a really welcoming place,” Claudia said. “It makes a difficult time feel a bit lighter.”
Having experienced that support first-hand, Claudia now volunteers with Beatson Cancer Charity, including helping with its tea trolley service.
“It might seem like a small thing, but a cup of tea can help people start talking and feel more at ease,” she said.
Now, as one of the thousands taking part in the Kiltwalk for Beatson Cancer Charity, Claudia hopes to continue her family’s support for the charity.
“It’s about giving something back,” she added. “Beatson Cancer Charity supports people in so many ways, and anything we can do to help, we will.”
Evonne Flisch, Community and Challenges Fundraiser at Beatson Cancer Charity, said:
“We’re so grateful to Claudia and the thousands of others taking part in the Kiltwalk this year. Every single person walking for Beatson Cancer Charity is helping us continue to support people and families affected by cancer.
“Claudia’s story is a powerful reminder of why that support matters so much, and we wish her the very best of luck as she takes on this incredible challenge.”
