MID Scotland and Fife MSP Claire Baker offered her support to Sarcoma UK this week as part of Teenage and Young Adult Cancer Awareness month.

The charity hosted an event at Holyrood which was attended by MSPs from across Scotland and saw Beth Keller, who was 22 when she was diagnosed with the illness, speak about her experiences of having sarcoma as a young person.

Ms Baker found out about work the charity is doing to take action for young people diagnosed with sarcoma.

"It is clear to see that more needs to be done to support young people, and to improve their experience through specialised services and research. Change is urgently needed," she said.

“It’s great to see this charity raising public awareness about sarcoma and its symptoms, while funding vital research into better treatments and supporting patients and loved ones through the Sarcoma UK Support Line.”

Also in attendance were representatives from Sarcoma UK including CEO Richard Davidson, and Director of Research, Policy and Support, Dr Sorrel Bickley.

Dr Sorrel Bickley, Director of Research, Policy and Support at Sarcoma UK said: “Cancer is different in young people. They have very different needs to older adults facing this disease, so they need a special, tailored approach to improving cancer diagnosis, treatment, care and support.

“The far-reaching impact of cancer does not end when treatment ends. Quality of life and learning to live well with cancer is vital too. The impact of a cancer diagnosis can continue for many years.

“We must raise awareness of the distinct challenges this age group face and improve outcomes for young people with cancer. Sarcoma UK welcomes the support of Claire Baker MSP in boosting awareness of sarcoma in teenagers and young people, and putting sarcoma on the agenda in Scotland.”

Information on sarcoma, such as signs and symptoms, support, and how Sarcoma UK is funding vital research and campaigning for better treatments, is available at sarcoma.org.uk.