Several Scottish brass band players swap instruments for running shoes this weekend to raise money for charity that has a very personal link
Members of Whitburn and Cooperative Funeralcare are among a group raising funds to help support 15 year old Scott Edmond, who suffers from the liver condition Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC).
Well known
Scott is the son of Alan and Laura Edmond, who are well-known in British banding even though they now live in Perth in Australia. Alan worked for many years with Besson and was a horn player with Whitburn, Cooperative Funeralcare and Broxburn & Livingston amongst others.
The runners have entered various events over the Edinburgh Marathon Festival (EMF) weekend ranging from the 5km to the full marathon.
Progressive disease
Laura and Alan Edmond told 4BR: "In September 2015 we were given the devastating news that Scott has the rare incurable progressive disease.
Its progression causes destruction of the bile ducts, repeated infections, jaundice, fatigue, uncontrollable itching, tumours and many more challenging symptoms. The liver becomes scarred and damaged, which ultimately leads to cirrhosis and complete liver failure.
At present there is no known cure for the disease and a transplant is the only option when end-stage liver disease is reached."
They added: "We have been overwhelmed by the offers of support to help raise awareness of this terrible disease."
Runners
The runners are raising money for PSC Support, which provides information and help to PSC sufferers and their families, and Mowatlabs at Kings Hospital London, who have helped the Edmond family with invaluable advice on Scott's condition.
This year, the hospital will open a pediatric research laboratory which will be responsible for research, predominately for children's liver disease, but also for other conditions including cancers.
Donations
The Cooperative Funeralcare Band have also donated the cornet they won at the Scottish Solo & Ensemble competition towards the fund, while Bo'ness & Carriden — where Scott's sister Hayley plays flugel, recently held a fundraising concert.
A member of the RASWA Brass band in Australia, who Alan has played for, also raised funds by running a half marathon.
He's keeping a true Scots/Aussie, 'can-do' attitude and is refusing to let the disease control his life. He is an incredible young man and we are very lucky and extremely proud to be his parentsAlan and Laura Edmond
Can do attitude
Laura and Alan added: "Despite his ongoing condition, Scott is currently doing well. He's keeping a true Scots/Aussie, 'can-do' attitude and is refusing to let the disease control his life. He is an incredible young man and we are very lucky and extremely proud to be his parents.
We are humbled that a group of our friends are running for the EMF. We wish them all the best and will be cheering them on every step and stride of the way!"
Make a donation
If you would like to support the runners and sponsor them, please visit the group's Virgin fundraising website:
