Going the Distance for Rick

We are raising money for Pancreatic Cancer Action Scotland (PCAS) this November!

To mark Pancreatic Cancer Awareness month Sheila, Martin and Mairi wanted to do something in memory of Rick, who they sadly lost to Pancreatic Cancer in 2013. 

Starting on the 1 November, our team has already covered the equivalent distance from our Orkney Workshop to Glasgow Royal Infirmary—the location of Scotland's only dedicated pancreatic nurse—and back. A total of 638 miles, walking, running, cycling, rowing and swimming. 

But, we are turning around and doing our virtual challenge again, hoping to complete a further 638 miles by the 19th, which is World Pancreatic Cancer day.

Rick was a keen and talented photographer, capturing many images that provided much of Sheila's design inspiration. As we travel the virtual distance, we're taking photos, just like Rick, and sharing these on our Facebook fundraiser page. The cold November weather won't stop us getting a few amazing shots of the scenery!

If you would like to support us you can donate here.

Scotland's only Specialist Pancreatic Cancer Nurse

We chose the distance to Glasgow Royal Infirmary to highlight how far we would have to travel to see specialist Pancreatic Cancer Nurse, Kimberley. 

Kimberley has been in the role for just over two years, covering three key areas: the West of Scotland pancreatic team, the groundbreaking 'Precision-Panc' research project, and PCAS.

Her role is to provides advice, support and guidance to patients and families affected by pancreatic cancer. Answering any questions her patients may have, while getting a picture of what support is needed, as every individual is different.

The focus is on building trust and a rapport with patients and families, providing continuity and guiding patients through their care pathway. 

Kimberley says: “Patient contact is the best part of my job. There’s often a lot to take in, and patients don’t always have questions right away. Knowing there is someone they can contact who can help with anything they are unsure of makes a huge difference.”

Working alongside colleagues, she’s a point of contact ensuring there’s always someone there. While also supporting PCAS by sharing insights on where support and focus is needed,

PCAS are hoping to secure funding so that they can support another specialist nurse in Edinburgh and also a third one in the North of Scotland.

Our Daisies Collection Supporting PCAS

Throughout 2020 our Daisies at Dawn, Diamond Daisies and Coloured Daisies collections have also been supporting PCAS. A percentage from every sale of the jewellery is donated to the charity to help them make the 2020s the decade of change for pancreatic cancer.

More information on pancreatic cancer can be found on the PCA website.