A Fife youngster whose mum has twice survived cancer is saying a super-sized thank you to fundraisers.
Harvey Goddard from Kirkcaldy celebrated his ninth birthday by posing with a giant card alongside mum Leanne.
Harvey’s birthdays are always special for Leanne who was 20 weeks’ pregnant with the youngster when she was diagnosed with cancer for the first time.
Now they are sending a message to everyone in Scotland who has supported Cancer Research UK, highlighting the importance of every action, from the smallest gestures to the greatest fundraising challenges, in helping the charity fund life-saving research.
Their heartfelt message comes as Cancer Research UK launches its inspiring summer awareness and fundraising campaign, designed to show how every supporter’s contribution combines to create a collective force in the battle against the disease.
Retail manager Leanne, 35, is thankful for every moment with her three sons, Colin, Declan and Harvey, after she was diagnosed with cancer for a second time in August 2013.
This was when Leanne was told she had a bronchial carcinoma and the top half of her lung was slowly collapsing, causing a chronic pain in her chest.
She had the cancerous tumour and part of her lung removed.
“I could not believe that I was facing cancer again and I was still only in my early thirties.
“But my attitude towards it was the same as before let’s get on with it and get it treated.
“I’d beaten it once before I knew I could do it again with the right treatment.
“Being told I was cancer free for the second time was wonderful news,” she said.
Now she appreciates how crucial research is and is grateful to everyone who has helped fund Cancer Research UK’s teams so they can carry out this vital work.
“That’s why Harvey and I are backing the campaign.”
Research has led to an improved understanding of the biology and causes of cancer which has led to discovering better ways to prevent, diagnose and treat the disease.
Linda Summerhayes, Cancer Research UK spokesperson in Scotland, said: “Every action, no matter how small, makes a big difference in the fight against the disease.
“And now, for the first time ever, we have reached a turning point in the fight against cancer.
“Today, two out of every four people with cancer will survive for 10 years or more.”
Leanne and Harvey are encouraging local people to visit the Cancer Research UK shop on High Street, Kirkcaldy, where the giant Thank You card will be displayed.