This year, we will be taking on the Edinburgh Marathon with hopeful hearts, raising funds for Young Lives vs Cancer in memory of a very special young man, Michael, who had a deep love for his dogs.

We first met Michael’s family in 2020, when his beloved dogs, Rosie and Ruby, began attending our daycare services. This allowed Michael’s mum and dad some precious time to take him on days out without the added worry of caring for the dogs. Even in the midst of unimaginable challenges, their love for their family — including their four-legged ones — always shone through.

Tragically, Michael passed away last year, and heartbreakingly, Rosie and Ruby have since passed too. Their loss is felt deeply, but so is the kindness and strength that defined Michael and his family.

Michael’s family are truly wonderful people who consistently went out of their way to support others, even while navigating their own profound heartache. Their generosity and compassion are a big part of why we wanted to do something meaningful in Michael’s memory.

Michael’s mum, Susan has shared just how vital Young Lives vs Cancer (formerly CLIC Sargent) was to their family:

“When Michael was diagnosed with a brain tumour in November 2003, we lived in the CLIC Sargent house across from the Sick Kids Hospital. The house and staff were funded by the charity, and we stayed there for almost a year while Michael underwent surgeries and chemotherapy.

We stayed again for six months during his daily radiotherapy at the Western General, and many times over the years as Michael continued treatment. When he suffered a stroke caused by the treatment and lost his sight, the charity was still there for us.

It was an absolute godsend. It meant we could be with Michael at the hospital without the constant worry of travelling back and forth to Selkirk. Our daughter Julie stayed with us sometimes too, while still managing to attend school.

That support made an unbearable journey just a little more manageable.”*

Today, Young Lives vs Cancer continue to provide this lifeline for families, including through their new house beside the new Sick Kids Hospital at the Royal.

By running the Edinburgh Marathon, we hope to raise as much money as possible to ensure future families receive the same vital care, comfort, and support that meant so much to the Bunyan family.

In addition to the marathon, we will also be holding a dog show later this year in memory of Michael, celebrating his love for dogs and the joy they brought into his life. (Date to be confirmed.)

Thank you so much for reading, sharing, and donating if you can. Every contribution — no matter how small — helps create a world where no family faces cancer alone.

❤️