A GoFundMe campaign to benefit cancer charities in the Western isles has been launched
by Christina MacGeoch, whose husband Norman died after battling Stage 4 metastatic
bowel cancer.
Christina, alongside close friends Sonia Hudson and Kate Abrahams, is cycling the
entire 185-mile Hebridean Way to raise money for the Western Isles Cancer Care Initiative
and Macmillan Cancer Support - two organisations that gave Norman the chance to spend
his final days at home in Lewis, surrounded by family.
Norman’s wish was to die at home, and it was only made possible thanks to the daily
care, humour, and compassion of Macmillan nurses and the support of WICCI. The experience
left a lasting mark on Christina and her family, and now she’s determined to give
back.
From between today and Wednesday, the trio will pedal across 10 islands, six causeways
and two ferries- made slightly easier thanks to electric bikes loaned by the Point
and Sandwick Trust.
Their support crew includes a neighbour and a physio, just in case. All funds raised
will help other families across the Western Isles receive the same support Norman
did.
In 2021, Norman MacGeoch battled Stage 4 metastatic bowel cancer, which had returned
with a vengeance in his liver, following an initial cancer diagnosis nine years prior.
This time, the cancer was terminal and as Norman entered palliative care and their
children flew back from abroad, the family decided they would look after him at home
here in Lewis.
“Cancer Nurses and WICCI that Norman was able to stay at home with his family around
him right up until his last moments,.
Christina said: “It is almost impossible to describe how much that meant to us and
to Norman. Being able to be together was the greatest gift in the darkest time.
“As a family, we were negotiating our way through completely unknown and terrifying
territory and having professional help, medical assistance, advice and emotional
support was invaluable.”
She added: “A friendly, compassionate and caring nurse arrived in our house every
day like a breath of fresh air. Always anticipating what he needed, dealing calmly
with the unexpected, cracking jokes with him until the end, giving him a shave when
he was too weak, getting his medications exactly right, all the while caring for
him with respect and dignity.
“Not only did they care for Norman, but the nurses were also so kind and understanding
to a grieving family who were scared and hurting. It’s impossible to appreciate the
true value of these incredible calibre of people until you find yourself in that
situation.
“The nurses brought light and laughter to our darkest days, ultimately allowing Norman
to be surrounded by his family right up until the end.”
Christina continued: “Want to join us in making a difference? We’re raising money
to benefit Western Isles Cancer Care Initiative and Macmillan Cancer Support, and
any donation will help make an impact.
“Thanks in advance for your contribution to this incredible cause that means so much
to my family, friends and I. We’re sure Norm will be having a laugh somewhere at
our expense but supporting us nonetheless.”
Lewis woman cycling 185-mile Hebridean Way inspired by late husband's cancer battle
5 June 2025
