Minister who survived cancer twice recognised in Scottish Parliament

A minister raising money for charity through a Swimathon event after she survived cancer twice has been recognised in the Scottish Parliament.

The motion, which was lodged by Rona Mackay, MSP for Strathkelvin and Bearsden, commended Rev Julie Moody, minister at Milton Campsie Parish Church, and her children for swimming 500 lengths in support of Marie Curie and Cancer Research UK.

Supported by fourteen MSPs, the motion ‘commends the efforts of the inspirational cancer survivor, Rev Julie Moody,' who was ‘supported by her two children Josiah, 11, and Esther, 9, to raise funds for vital medical research into the disease'.

The motion also notes ‘that the family's marathon feat is part of the annual UK-wide Swimathon event in aid of charities Marie Curie and Cancer Research UK; understands that Julie has been treated for breast cancer twice and is grateful for the medical care that she said saved her life; notes that the family wants to give back to aid others; applauds them for helping to make sure that research into cancer treatment and potential cures continues, and wishes them every success in their fantastic fundraising endeavour.'

Making a difference

Rev Julie Moody said:

"I was delighted that the amazing work of Marie Curie and Cancer Research UK was highlighted in the Scottish Parliament, so if our Swimathon Challenge helps to raise the profile of these charities we've done a good job.

"We also managed to raise a great sum in sponsorship - well over £2000 when Gift Aid is added.

"The tension mounts at home though as, in order for both kids to get a gold swim cap from Swimathon for fundraising, we need to have raised £2000 before Gift Aid!

"We really enjoyed the challenge and were encouraged by family, friends, our church family, the local Leisure Centre staff - and random strangers donating.

"In the end we doubled our swimming target, which was 25km or 1000 lengths. A great combined effort.

"In some ways I've found it overwhelming to have our story told through so many different media and be mentioned at Holyrood.

"I never want to go through the cancer experience again. It is truly horrific. In that darkest of valleys, I knew love and shelter from God like never before, but it was still hard.

"Nevertheless, if telling my story helps someone else, I'm glad to share it. And that's why the fundraising and profile raising is so important."

Julie was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015 when her youngest child was just 5 months old.

Julie discovered another lump two years after treatment and reconstruction and had to go through surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy again.

She emphasised that the support of her family, local church, and medical staff were crucial during the ordeal.

You can support Julie's fundraiser through JustGiving.