Highlands and Islands MSP Jamie Halcro Johnston has met with representatives of Brain Tumour Research as part of their ongoing efforts to raise awareness of the urgent need for more funding and support.
Campaigners visited the Scottish Parliament to promote their Wear A Hat Day event on Friday 31st March 2023, where Mr Halcro Johnston spoke with survivors and parents about brain tumours, as well as about the devastating impact on patients and their families of late diagnosis of the disease.
They highlighted the urgent need for action to improve the funding system for brain tumour research, and for more support for patients and their families.
Mr Halcro Johnston said: "I was incredibly moved by the stories I heard during the visit to Parliament by campaigners from the Brain Tumour Research charity.
“Brain tumours are a devastating disease, and it was heart-breaking to hear the stories of loss from parents, and that earlier diagnosis may have led to a more positive outcome for their children.
“With brain tumours killing more people under the age of 40 than any other kind of cancer, there was frustration that research and diagnosis of the disease was not getting the level of support it should be.
“It is vital that the resource is in place to increase research into brain tumours, and that the Scottish Government ensures access to both the earliest possible diagnosis and treatment, regardless of where someone lives.
“It is also important that the right support is in place and available to patients and their families, including those who live in more rural parts of the Highlands and Islands.
"I know the charity is looking to continue to raise awareness of the disease in parliament and in the country, and they will have my support in doing so."
For more information, visit https://www.braintumourresearch.org/ and https://www.braintumourresearch.org/fundraise/wear-a-hat-day
