Radical X-Raycers ready to step up to Kiltwalk challenge
Third year Radiotherapy and Oncology students are teaming up to help raise money for childhood cancer charity, LoveOliver.
A total of 11 students, who have named themselves the 'Radical X-Raycers' will look out their walking shoes and positive attitudes on Sunday 30th April when they take on The Kiltwalk’s famous route from Glasgow Green to Balloch.
Third year student Nicola Cultrera explained more about why the group of students got involved. She said: “We were having a few different charities come and talk to us as part of our module which covers pediatric cancers.
“We walked into one of our classes and our lecturer, Jenny, was actually saying we should all get involved in The Kiltwalk. We were originally going to split it between a few different charities but it just so happened that we were visited by LoveOliver that day.”
Nicola and the rest of her classmates were inspired by the presentation and knew they had to do their bit to provide some support.
She explained: “Jennifer from the charity told us how her son was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer when he was only a couple of days old. He then had intensive treatment but passed away on Christmas day when he was just 24 weeks old.
“Jennifer and her husband Andy started the charity LoveOliver in 2011 as a way of improving the quality of life for children who have been diagnosed with cancer. They are basically there to help in any way they can, whether that’s financial support to the families or even entertainment for the child affected.
“LoveOliver also put a lot of funding into the research of childhood cancer. They try to provide stronger treatments for children so that the chance of long-term side effects are reduced.”
Nicola added: “As students, we are well aware of the amazing work the likes of the Beatson and Maggies do, but I think the story behind LoveOliver really resonated with us and helped us realise we wanted to raise money for their cause.”
The students involved have already raised over £1,600 between them, far exceeding their original £500 target.
Nicola said: “Every little bit helps us and it all goes to such an amazing cause. Cancer touches everyone - it’s horrific and destroys families. We see the impact it has when we’re on placement and I think that has driven us to help out in any way we can.”
With around eight hours of hiking just around the corner, Nicola and the rest of the students have been prepping themselves in their own way for their big day in the great outdoors.
She explained: “Some of us haven’t been doing too much but others have been walking every day!
“It’s 22.7 miles so it’s a lot, but it is flat. I’m hoping it won’t be too hard but I think we will all be winging it a bit.”
As well as raising funds for LoveOliver, Nicola insists the students will benefit first-hand from heading out into the fresh air and natural beauty of Scotland.
She said: “I actually do quite a lot of hillwalking. I particularly like Munro-bagging, it’s a great way to see Scotland!
“Walking in general is perfect for clearing your head. I don’t think there’s anything better for your mental health.”
Nicola added: “The Kiltwalk will also be a way for us to celebrate getting through third year together. We will definitely have our music on and have a wee party as we go along!”
You can show your support for the Radical X-Raycers and LoveOliver by donating here
By Ross Clark
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