Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

I'm 46 years old and have just found out that my treatment for stage 4 papillary kidney cancer has come to an end. The drugs aren't working, the bloody cancer is progressing and I am now facing purely palliative treatment.

The discovery that my older sister Jackey has, without fuss or fanfare, been quietly raising money for Maggie's Cancer Caring Centres on a number of occasions over the past year, from rattling a collection can under the nose of Alex Salmon to volunteering to wrap Christmas presents for shoppers in Waterstones, has inspired me to sign up to join her in the Challenge Scotland event.

When I heard Jackey was giving up the first free day she has had in months to participate in this event (just the day before she goes on a frenetic holiday of sight-seeing across the UK)  I was shamed into joining her!

I was also inspired into doing something active by the sad news of the death from cancer of Jonathan Speirs FRIAS earlier this week. Jonathan faced a terminal prognosis with such spirit that his example has inspired me to do something positive.

 I have reason to be grateful to many organisations who have helped me throughout the past three years, including Cancer Research Scotland and Macmillan, and not forgetting my own workplace, the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS) who have been particularly supportive.

Why Maggie's?

Team McCord is raising funds for Maggie's as I have a strong personal connection to the centres. As Depute Secretary and an Honorary Fellow of the RIAS I applaud and want to highlight the invaluable contribution the Maggie's Centres buildings have made to the UK's built environment; these beautifully designed buildings by the world's leading architects have made clear that our surroundings can significantly enhance our sense of health and wellbeing.

 On a personal note I have reason to appreciate that. I have been very grateful for the lifeline of support and advice which the Maggie's Centre at the Western General in Edinburgh (the original Maggie's Centre, designed by RIAS Fellow Richard Murphy)  has offered

 I aim to complete at least one of the 'Golden Miles' of the inclusive Challenge Scotland event which is being held in one of my favourite places, Holyrood Park in Edinburgh. Jackey will be strolling for much longer!

 Robin, my beautiful husband, as ever, will be my side, emotionally and perhaps even physically supporting me.

A humble challenge?

 I know that a Sunday stroll around Neil, Josh and HRH the Queen's back garden doesn't sound like much of a challenge but my treatment has left me physically debilitated; a fresh crop of tumours on my chest has compromised my breathing, a large tumour entangled with my spine and ribs gives me mobility issues and thryoid complications from my latest drug have gifted me muscle cramps. I'm embarrassed to admit it but a mile is now a significant challenge to me and I will probably be hobbling for most of it!

Every penny counts!

I know this is really quite a humble effort so we don't expect extravagant donations. We've set ourselves a modest target and will be extremely grateful for any donation, no matter how small.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

  Whether you sponsor Team McCord or not Robin and I would like to thank all our family and friends for all your support over the past few years.

I'll post an account and pics of Sunday on my blog at www.kidneycancerinfo.org.uk 

Big hugs to all of ya!

Sharon McCord Hon FRIAS