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When 62-year-old Robert from Kirkintilloch decided to embark on a 500-mile journey, it was not just for the thrill of the challenge but a deeply personal tribute to his late father, Nicol. Diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma in 1978, Nicol's health initially improved with treatment. However, the cancer returned and he was diagnosed with lung cancer, which ultimately took his life in 1997.
Despite the heartbreak and the significant toll it took on their family, Nicol's spirit and the incredible care he received from Beatson Cancer Charity provided an additional 19 years of life, filled with family holidays and cherished memories.
Inspired by his father's resilience and the support from Beatson, Robert decided to undertake the epic 500-mile Camino Frances walk from France to Spain. As a way of giving back to Beatson Cancer Charity, he hopes to honour his father's legacy and raise funds to support the same compassionate care that gave his family precious extra years with Nicol.
WATCH: Robert McComb reflects on his 500 mile walk
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Donate to support Robert McComb's 500 mile walk
Robert first walked to the top of Ben Lomond two years ago to raise money for Beatson on behalf of his work colleague Colin's daughter, Nicola. The success of this endeavour fuelled his desire to do more. Learning about the Camino Frances, Robert decided to take on this monumental challenge.
"The challenge was always about supporting my colleague Colin," Robert explained. "He was the inspiration for everything. His daughter recovered with the care and support of Beatson."
The drive to raise funds for Beatson Cancer Charity was deeply personal for Robert.
"My hill walking friends from work, Chris, Stevie, and Beau, helped me prepare with regular weekend walks," Robert said. "Before my journey, we organised a 10k for Colin to raise money for Maggie's Centre, nearly £1,000 was raised. This was the last time I saw Colin. My last words to him were, 'You will be with me every step of the way.' Colin passed away the Monday after I completed the Camino.
PICTURED: Robert McComb and friends during the Camino Frances walk
The Camino Frances was an incredibly tough challenge but also immensely rewarding.
Reflecting on the experience, Robert said, "I found the challenge incredibly tough on some stages but totally rewarding because of the friends I met"
This journey has inspired Robert to take on more challenges in the future.
"It's made me want to walk the Camino Portuguese from Lisbon to Santiago," he shared. "It's also made me realise that anything is possible if you don't think too hard about it."
If you want to take on a challenge or fundraise for our charity, find out more here.
