Edinburgh man takes on 43-mile cycle challenge for sister-in-law with stage 4 cancer
“There's no reason why you can't just carry on living a normal and happy life”
An Edinburgh man is preparing to take on a 43-mile cycle challenge alongside his sister-in-law, after she was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer just months after retiring from her job as an oncologist.
Andrew Butler, 58, will take part in this year's Tour de 4 on Sunday, September 6, joining a group organised by his sister-in-law, Viv MacLaren, following her diagnosis.
Andrew, who lives in Newington, said the news had been “very shocking” for the family, given her career helping others living with cancer.
“She was an oncologist in the NHS herself,” he said. “She retired from oncology and was looking forward to spending more time doing stuff she likes to do.
“So it came at a very unfortunate time because it was just after she retired,” he added.
Despite the diagnosis, Andrew said his sister-in-law has responded well to treatment and continues to live life to the fullest.
Andrew said: “I've seen her, she's been absolutely her old self.
“Her appearance changes a bit depending on where she is with her treatment, but she seems to be absolutely able to live a full life and take part in family events.”
Andrew said the experience has reinforced his belief that stage 4 cancer diagnosis does not necessarily mean life has to stop.
“I really hope that people will understand that life doesn't stop,” he said.
“With the development of treatments these days, there's no reason why you can't just carry on living a normal and happy life.”
Mr Butler will cycle the shorter “Blue Ride” route, which is 43 miles starting at the Velodrome in Glasgow, and is hoping his previous cycling experience will see him through the challenge.
His last major training ride saw him cycle from Edinburgh to Glasgow along the canal, a 58-mile journey which he described as a tough day after facing a strong headwind.
“I figured hopefully if I can manage that, then I should be able to manage the ride on the day,” he said.
He said taking part in the challenge is his way of showing his sister-in-law support and demonstrating that he is “with her” throughout her cancer journey.
And he will not be cycling alone, his sister-in-law is also taking part in the Tour de 4 in the same group, meaning the pair hope to complete the challenge side by side.
Andrew joked that he would have to keep up with her to “keep my self respect”.
He has been raising money for charities supporting people living with stage 4 cancer, with his original target sitting at £1,000. Andrew has already surpassed that figure, with more than £1,600 raised.
He said he was “very pleased” by the generosity of supporters and hopes to increase the total more in the days leading up to the event.
He hopes donations will help charities provide support to people living with cancer, not only through treatment but by helping to improve their quality of life.
When he reaches the finishing line on Sunday, there will be one person at the forefront of his mind.
“I’d be thinking about my sister-in-law and hopefully I will be cycling with her or near her,” he said.
“I expect it will be quite an emotional and sort of happy moment.”
If you would like to support Andrew in his fundraising you can visit his GoFundMe here.