Caroline’s story

Carrying Fraser’s Legacy Forward

Caroline, who lives just outside Glasgow with her husband Phil, is a devoted mother and advocate for people affected by children and young people’s cancers.

In July 2022, she experienced the unimaginable loss of her only child, Fraser, to a rare and aggressive brain tumour—an Anaplastic Glioneuronal Tumour with H3K27M, H3F3A, and TP53 mutations. Fraser was just 18 years old.

In addition to the loss of Fraser, Caroline’s life has been deeply touched by cancer. She has lost her father, mother, uncle and a family member to various forms of the disease.

“Fraser was incredibly passionate about sharing his story. He wanted to educate others and make sure no young person felt alone. Now, it’s my life’s mission to carry that forward.”

Fraser’s symptoms began in 2018 but were initially put down to being puberty-related. It wasn’t until November 2020, after worsening symptoms, that he was finally diagnosed.

A legacy of bravery and kindness

Despite the immense challenges he faced, Fraser achieved more in his short life than many do in a lifetime. Even while undergoing treatment, Fraser was determined to help others.

• He wrote his own story, My Brain Tumour Journey, to raise awareness and offer comfort to other young people facing similar diagnoses.
• He created a brain tumour symptoms poster in his own words, which was later read aloud in the Scottish Parliament and shared by MSPs, including Jackson Carlaw and Minister Jenni Minto.
• He advocated for earlier diagnosis, driven by his own experience of being misdiagnosed for years.

“Fraser once said, ‘If I can just help one person, I’ll be happy.’ That’s the future he wanted. And it’s the one I’ll always keep fighting for.”

Finding Purpose

Caroline brings not only her insights, but Fraser’s reflections to the table. She believes that real change happens when people can listen to those who’ve lived through cancer, not just statistics, but the stories.

“Behind every diagnosis is a person. A life. A family. Fraser taught me that young people have so much to offer. Their voices matter.”

Being part of the Cancer Research UK for Children & Young People Insights Panel has given Caroline a renewed sense of purpose. It’s helped her grow in confidence, develop new skills, and feel part of something bigger. Most importantly, it’s allowed her to honour Fraser’s legacy in a deeply meaningful way.

“If sharing our story helps even one person feel understood or leads to better care, then it’s worth it. Fraser’s voice lives on through me.”

Encouraging others to get involved

Caroline encourages anyone affected by cancer, especially young voices, to get involved and share their experiences. She knows it can be daunting, but she also knows how empowering it can be.

“You don’t need to have all the answers. Just be honest. Your voice matters more than you know.”

Caroline hopes for a world where young people are not only heard but actively involved in shaping cancer research and care. Where treatments are tailored to their unique needs. Where no child is misdiagnosed or left feeling invisible.

“Fraser lives on through the work I do. That’s something I’ll always carry with me.”