Ayrshire teen suffering from tumour throws party

Aug 29 2008

SMILING teenager Allister Boyd looks the picture of health and happiness.

But behind the handsome 19-year-old’s grin is a determined, mature and brave young man.

The business studies student has already beaten cancer – twice.

But in a devastating twist of fate, a brain tumour he previously conquered is back.

And there is nothing doctors can do about it.

However, ever inspiring Allister, from Stair, has decided to make the most of every minute he has left.

He is throwing a massive party for his friends and family and wants to use the big event to raise cash for his two favourite charities.

CLIC Sargent and Teenage Cancer Trust will benefit from big-hearted Allister’s gesture.

He said: “I want to really concentrate on this fundraising now. CLIC Sargent have been there for me since day one and Teenage Cancer Trust have just opened a ward for teenagers and young adults at the Beatson in Glasgow, it’s a fantastic facility.”

Both cancer charities have worked as invaluable support pillars for Allister, his mum Kim, dad Robert, and 16-year-old brother Russell over the last three years.

Allister was first given the devastating blow that he had a brain tumour in 2005.

He battled the cancer and in February 2007 finished his treatment.

Allister had to undergo regular scans over the following year but in February this year, his family were given the news that the cancer was back.

Allister developed a tumour near the base of his spine and he had to undergo more treatment.

Once again Allister’s positive attitude pulled him and his family through. He finished his treatment in June and began looking forward to getting on with the rest of his life.

But just a few weeks ago, Allister started getting painful headaches and took himself to Ayr Hospital.

He was sent home and told to buy a nasal spray to clear his sinuses, nobody feared the worse because it had been so soon since his last scan.

When his sinuses didn’t clear up, Allister went to the Beatson for advice, he was scanned as a precaution.

However, he and his family were dealt the devastating blow that Allister’s brain tumour had returned and this time it is terminal.

But once again, Allister’s amazing strength of character has shone through.

He wants to celebrate his life, and say thank you to all the people who have made a difference in it.

Allister explained: “I’m having an event at the Brig O’ Doon on September 5 for all the people who have helped me. Friends who have stuck by me, nurses from the Beatson, nurses from Station 15 at Ayr Hospital and of course CLIC Sargent and Teenage Cancer Trust.

“CLIC were there when I first got diagnosed, they’ve been there to talk and helped me through my treatment, making me as relaxed as possible.

“They introduced me to a young adults group which was great. Although we all have a common bond, it’s not what we always talk about – in fact we avoid talking about it as much as we can.

“I’ve done a lot of promoting for Teenage Cancer Trust. This new facility is a brilliant one.”

Allister is now calling on local businesses to donate raffle prizes to his party.

And the bigger the better.

He said: “If one of the local garages wanted to donate a car obviously I would open that raffle up to the general public. I know it’s a big ask, but I can always dream.

“I’m keen to have the likes of restaurants and beauticians donate prizes.”

To donate raffle prizes, contact Allister on 07809117381.