Lillian Malcolm, secretary of Dundee branch of the Multiple Sclerosis Society, has died aged 71.
She was also a tireless advocate for disabled rights through her involvement with Dundee Access Group.
Lillian was born in Dundee in January 1951, the youngest of five children of Alexander and Flora Malcolm.
She was raised alongside her siblings Sheila, Kenneth, Sandra and Bruce.
School years
Lillian began her education at Gilburn Primary School before going on to Kirkton High School.
After leaving school she went to Edinburgh to train as a primary teacher before taking up her first post in Dunfermline.
In time she returned to her roots in Dundee, specialising in working with children with behavioural problems in the city.
She spent time at Linlathen High as well as Morgan Academy, Harris Academy and Menzieshill High School.
Adventure
Following her suspected diagnosis with MS aged 26, Lillian travelled with her brother, Bruce, across Europe and Asia in a bus, eventually ending up in Australia and Tasmania to stay with her sister Sheila, husband Bill and nephews.
By the time she got into her 40s, it was clear that it was MS she had and it was progressing, causing her to lose her independence little by little. At this time she gave up her work.
Partnership
She met her partner Gordon in 1993 and together they would campaign for charities close to their hearts, in particular the MS Society where Gordon was president and Lillian secretary.
The couple organised events including annual quiz nights and helped to raise thousand of pounds for essential research into MS, and gave support to other sufferers.
Following the death of Gordon in 2017, Lillian continued to support this vital campaigning.
She was also an active member of the Dundee Access Group.
Honoured
In 2013, at a civic reception in Dundee City Chambers for the 60th anniversary of MS Society, Lillian was presented with A Shining Star Award by Lord Provost Bob Duncan.
In 2018 Lillian was invited to Downing Street where she was honoured and personally thanked by Theresa May, the then Prime Minister, for her hard work and contribution to MS Society.
Mrs May said that she had been “inspired” by Lillian’s contribution.
Three weeks before she died, Lillian was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. She decided that she did not want to accept any further available treatments. She described herself as tired and wanted to be at peace.
Her niece, Fiona Gill, said: “She was an inspirational lady who was a much loved sister, auntie, great auntie, great-great auntie and very good friend to many.”
In this video, Lillian explains how she regained confidence after taking part in a Dundee art project.
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