The JMA trust was established in memory of a very special man - John Maurice Aitken.

John had a big personality and an even bigger heart.

In his name we have been making a difference to groups and individuals across Scotland. By making small but meaningful donations to those who need it the most. John was opinionated, headstrong and mischievous with a warmth to him like no other. John fought lymphoma 3 times in his life He showed a level of courage and strength that most of us could only aspire to. Through the very darkest days of illness, he never once let it get the better of him.

John whole-heartedly believed that with a bit of hard work, anyone could achieve success. John had a passion for sport, and even more so for football – this kept him entertained through many a long day on the ward during times of treatment. He loved his family and friends, food, organising, and giving advice – whether you wanted it or not

 John spent a lot of time in the Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre – known fondly as just “the Beatson” to its visitors. He came to love the people looking after him there and was looking forward to the day he could thank them for making him better – from the domestic who helped him connect up his laptop to the hospital WiFi on his first overnight stay, to the “Friends of the Beatson” therapists for their special foot massages, the nursing staff who gave him a big smile (and extra custard) even on his most grumpy days, to the doctors who took a chance on him when the odds were uncertain. He had a special place for all of them, and often spoke about giving something back when he was well again.

John was a strong believer in finding some positive in any difficult situation. He showed this more times than many of us could imagine. His legacy will therefore live on through the JMA trust. As he would say, when times get tough or when things are not going our way, all we need to do is 'Keep the Faith'