A local Unite the Union branch has donated £10,000 to support Isla’s Army and the Teenage and Young Adult Unit at the Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre.
Isla died from breast cancer in March 2025, aged just 17. Following her death, her parents established Isla’s Army to support other young people and families affected by cancer and ensure their daughter’s legacy continues.
The branch first learned about Isla’s Army through one of its members. Representatives were invited to meet Mark and Michelle Sneddon, who shared the story of their daughter and the work being undertaken in her memory.
Mandy Taylor, Branch Secretary at Unite the Union, said: “Meeting Mark and Michelle and hearing about Isla had a profound impact on us. Their commitment to helping other young people and families is truly inspiring. We hope our donation will provide some additional comfort for patients and their loved ones during an extremely difficult time.
“We are honoured to play a small part in supporting Isla’s legacy and hope to continue our relationship with the charity in the future.”
The donation from Unite Branch SC/175 will help fund new day beds for the unit, providing greater comfort for family members and friends who stay alongside young people receiving cancer treatment.
As well as fundraising and supporting young patients, Mark and Michelle have championed Isla’s Principles. These focus on listening to young people, involving families in decisions about care, and treating patients with dignity, compassion and respect. They also continue to advocate for Isla’s Law, a campaign focused on awareness, accountability and ensuring lessons are learned from Isla’s experience.
Branch representatives visited the Teenage and Young Adult Unit, where they saw how charitable donations support young patients and the people closest to them. During the visit, they met nurse specialist Aidan MacDonald, who cared for Isla and her family, and Maisie McCormick, Community Fundraising Manager with Beatson Cancer Charity.
Mandy added: “Our branch is committed to supporting charities and community groups across Lanarkshire. If Unite members have a charity close to their heart, or are fundraising for a cause and looking for support, we would be pleased to hear from them.
“Isla’s legacy continues to make a real difference to young people and their families, and we are privileged to support that work.”
