Bathgate woman raises thousands of pounds after being inspired by friend’s courage

Dec 24 2009 by Marjorie Kerr, West Lothian Courier

A WOMAN has raised thousands of pounds to support cancer patients after being inspired by her friend’s bravery.

Heather Thomson’s friend Sandra Binnie (52) was diagnosed with mouth cancer last year and began her chemotherapy on Hogmanay.

She was given treatment at St John’s Hospital in Livingston and radiotherapy at the Western General in Edinburgh, but remained cheerful and courageous in her battle with the disease.

And Heather (46) from Balbardie Avenue in Bathgate, said Sandra was a major inspiration.

She said: “Despite losing her hair, Sandra continued to be her same old smiling self and I never once heard her complain.

“I was humbled by her attitude and decided that it would be nice to give something back in some way to help research into this terrible disease.”

So Heather, who has also lost both of her parents to cancer, decided to organise a charity cabaret night.

The event was held in Bathgate’s Royal British Legion on October 31 and was a showcase of music, comedy and dancing, with cash raised through ticket sales as well as through a raffle and tombola.

And as a result of the evening, £2365 was raised with £1365 donated to Cancer Research and, at Sandra’s request, £1000 was handed to St John’s Oncology Department in recognition of the treatment she received there.

As an added bonus to the night’s success, Sandra had been given great news by the time of the fundraiser – she had beaten the disease.

Heather said: “The good news is that, by the time the event came round, Sandra had finished her treatments and had been given the all clear.

“We’d like to thank Brendan Moohan for compering the evening, and Instant Replay, Stuart Smith, Jed Dirkie, Brian and Lorna Tugman and the Luscious Ladies for providing the entertainment alongside myself.

“Also to all friends and family who supported the event and all the businesses who provided raffle prizes.”

However, anyone who wants to support the worthy causes helped by the evening’s events is not too late.

That is because a CD of songs performed by Heather has been produced thanks to Goldstar Recording Studio in Lochgelly, and is on sale now priced £5. Call 07810 181 411.