Most people in Haddington know Lyn, Robin, Archie, Nancy and Murin Hamilton as positive, active members of our community, who always go above and beyond to help everyone in need. You may know Nancy, who was diagnosed with Dystonia, a Neurological movement condition for which there is no cure, at a young age. Nancy has bravely battled through years of intense treatment, including 3 rounds of brain surgery, supported unwaveringly by her loving family.

On 14th October 2022, their lives were shattered for a second time when Archie, their 16-year-old son, was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma Bone Cancer located in the base of his spine. The tumour is inoperable, and Archie is facing months of intensive chemotherapy and extended periods in hospital. He has recently returned from a specialist, state-of-the-art Proton treatment in Manchester.

The emotional toll that this has and will take on this family is unimaginable. They are loved and supported by many people, but even their strength is tested to the full now. I also know that the impact of Archie's recent diagnosis has affected many in the wider community, as friends struggle to come to terms with his diagnosis, and the fact that this wonderful, selfless and loving family has been dealt such a blow.

Now to the chase: on a practical level, the financial implications of their situation will be significant, enhanced by a cost of living crisis which is impacting everyone. As well as basic living expenses, they will need to make alterations to their home to make their lives easier as they support Nancy's disability and care for Archie during his treatment as well as being there for Murin.

These circumstances are unfair and the 5 of them need our help to get through this challenging time. They have loved and supported so many others, and now they require some help back.

This could be any one of us. This could be our family and it is important that the communities that are linked to them support them in whatever way you can.

Archie has been invited and has accepted the role of Official Starter of the Edinburgh Marathon at the end of May so w have set up this Just Giving page to support the family in this time of need and see if we can raise £26,200 the marathon distance by the end of May.

If you are able to donate any amount, then please do so. Money will not cure Archie but it will make sure they do not have to think about day to day “things” while they care for the 5 of them.

So PLEASE give what you can. It takes as little as 2 minutes to donate, and we can all help and show our love for all of them. Thank you.