Commonwealth Games swimmer Archie Goodburn, diagnosed with incurable brain cancer, made a tearful appeal to Prime Minister Andy Burnham for increased research funding.
Diagnosis and Mission
The 25-year-old Team Scotland athlete was diagnosed with Oligodendrogliomas at age 22, a tumour type accounting for roughly three per cent of all primary brain tumours. He appeared on BBC Breakfast on Tuesday (August 4) to raise awareness.
Speaking to hosts Sally Nugent and Jon Kay, Goodburn highlighted insufficient funding for brain cancer research, noting that funding isn't in the right place to "allow these discoveries to turn into clinical trials," a frustration researchers have shared with him.
Emotional Plea
Visibly trembling and in tears, Goodburn begged the Prime Minister to "please listen to us" and enact change. He said funding would "give us a chance to fight for our lives," describing patients' experiences as "unbelievable and so unjust."
With tears streaming, he emotionally stated he is "on my knees begging" for change for himself, others affected, and families nationwide.
Government Response and Commonwealth Games
The Department of Health and Social Care said the government is working to provide earlier detection and improved treatment through the Rare Cancers Act, passed earlier this year.
Goodburn, who reached the 50m breaststroke final at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games, missed a medal but passionately advocated for research. Reflecting on the Games, he said: "It was an honour to compete in front of such a fantastic and supportive home crowd." He added that the support from interviews was "really touching and inspiring," and that his pool achievements are only possible due to medical advances and community campaigning.
