Meet the Glasgow dog leading the fight against cancer this weekend
Simba, a two-year old rescue border collie from Glasgow, will be heading the pack tomorrow at the 11th ‘Off the Beatson Track’ 10k fundraiser.
Last updated 25th Aug 2024
The annual event, organised by The Beatson Cancer Centre, will begin at The Riverside Museum and will proceed past the centre as part of its route.
It marks the end of a memorable year of involvement and fundraising for Simba, after he was crowned as the charity’s annual Ambassadog in 2023.
A huge support for Helen
It has also been an emotional year for his owner, Chris Maitland, and Chris' mum Helen Maitland, who will be joining him at the event.
Chris entered Simba into the competition after he played a pivotal role in supporting Helen during her treatment at the Beatson.
The playful pooch faithfully waited for Helen to come out of her appointments after she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2021.
'I get really emotional about it'
Helen, a life-long dog lover, says Simba has been “terrific” and that she “can’t stop talking about how much he’s helped her.”
She said: "I have told so many people about Simba being the Ambassadog, and I am just so proud to be involved in a small way with Beatson Cancer Charity.
"I actually get quite emotional about it."
Since taking on the role last year, Simba has been involved in several fundraising events for the Beatson, and this year's 10k will be his last official duty in his post.
'Dogs really bring people together'
Helen says Simba efforts have earned him many fans, who have been inspired by his journey.
She said: “Dogs really bring people together and Simba has been a real conversation starter.
“We get so many messages from people wishing him well and I really feel he’s done his bit to raise awareness for the Beatson Centre.”
Her son, Chris, agrees and says that Simba has “loved every minute” of his time as Ambassadog.
He is looking forward to the event, which he says is “not only way to raise money for the charity” but also “a chance to come together as a community to support each other.”
Other dogs keen to follow Simba’s pawprints can be entered into the 2024 Ambassadog competition, which will be taking place on the day.
You can support Simba and the Maitland’s here on JustGiving.
Find out more about the 11th ‘Off the Beatson Track’ here: Off the Beatson Track 2024! beatsoncancercharity.org