Graeme has been living with EGFR+ lung cancer for more than a decade

I was 42 when I was diagnosed. You’re still right in the middle of your career at that age, so it changes everything

I’m Graeme, I’m 55, and I live in Kilbarchan in Renfrewshire. Before cancer came along, I worked as an electrical engineer. These days, I spend my time volunteering, fundraising, and doing advocacy work to help others living with cancer.

I was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2013, and I’ve been living with stage 4 EGFR+ since 2017. Over the years, I’ve had surgery to remove part of my lung, several rounds of chemotherapy, and different targeted treatments. In total, I’ve had more than 80 cycles of chemo - it’s taken a gradual toll on my quality of life and mobility, but I’ve recently started a new targeted therapy that I’m responding well to.

Alongside treatment, I’ve had to work hard on my mental health. The uncertainty that comes with long-term cancer takes its toll, especially when treatment and antidepressant medication don’t always mix well. I try to stay proactive - I’ve joined fitness and wellbeing programmes to keep my body moving and my mind as steady as possible.

My three kids all play in local pipe bands - two on the bagpipes and one is a drummer. A few years ago, I even tried learning the pipes myself to build up my lung stamina. It’s fair to say they’re all much better than me, but it gave us something to share.

I’ve been involved in advocacy and fundraising work since 2015, volunteering with Beatson Cancer Charity whenever I can. The Beatson has been a huge part of my journey, not just for me but for my family too. From wellbeing support to fundraising events like the Kiltwalk and a zipslide across the River Clyde, as well as various other activities, these have helped us all stay connected and find some normality.

My youngest was only five when I was diagnosed, so he’s grown up with this. I’ve always wanted to show my kids that even when things are tough, you don’t just stop. You adapt, keep going and try to embrace what you can still do.

Lately I’ve started restoring a modern classic sports car - a wee project to help my mental health and come to terms with medical retirement. It’s slow progress, but I’m enjoying it.

"It helps normalise living with cancer. You can still go out and do fundraising events, go for walks and do activities as a family. It gives you the confidence to do so.’ - Graeme