“Why TCCL?” by Frances, one of our supporters.

Why TCCL?

I was fortunate enough to be Gavin Russell’s Guidance teacher at Perth High School.  Gavin was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma in November 2014.  That was the start of my long and close association with Gavin and his family, both during his school days, and after I retired and he left school.  Gavin’s attitude to his condition was one of total positivity.  He was an inspiration to everyone who knew him, and bore his treatments with dignity and humour.  He and his family were supported by several agencies and charities, but, when I decided to take part in my first Broughty Ferry New Year’s Day Dook,  I turned to Gavin and his family to choose a charity for me to fundraise for and it was TCCL.  It was always TCCL for Gavin.  TCCL doesn’t just fundraise and help with finances.  They provide respite for young cancer patients and for their families with holidays at their lodge in St. Andrews, family outings, activities and so on.  After such a brave fight, Gavin finally succumbed to Ewing’s in September 2021, aged 20.  At the time of writing, I have done 3 Dooks and I will continue to do them every year as long as I am able, and always in aid of TCCL in Gavin’s memory.