Family donates over £3,000 to vital Dundee respiratory research in memory of beloved grandfather who battled lung condition

Robert McLean was a proud retired fisherman from Peterhead who courageously fought chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) for many years, but sadly passed away in April 2023, aged 73.

The former skipper often relied on oxygen and the care of his family, especially his loving wife, Grace.

Throughout his battle with the debilitating condition, Robert regularly conducted his own research, eager to stay informed about advancements in respiratory medicine. His family recalls that it didn’t take him long to identify the University of Dundee School of Medicine as a leading institution in the field of respiratory research.

“Granda was always looking to see what the latest research was and whether any new treatments were on the horizon," his granddaughter, Melissa McLean, shared.

“He was so brave and had great admiration for the work being done in Dundee. When he passed last year, we felt it was only right to raise funds to support ongoing research. I’m sure he would be very proud of what we’ve achieved.”

Robert’s family has since raised over £3,000 through various fundraising activities. Their most recent effort, a quiz night held in Peterhead, brought in £2,250.

Following this latest success, Robert’s daughters Pamela and Fiona, his widow Grace, and granddaughter Melissa made a special visit to the Dundee lab managed by Professor James Chalmers. There, they handed over a donation cheque and were given an insightful tour to see first hand where their contributions would support ongoing research.

Professor James Chalmers, Clinical Professor of Respiratory Medicine and Gastroenterology, said, “We are incredibly thankful to Robert’s family for their hard work and generosity in raising these crucial funds. It was a pleasure to welcome them to the lab and show them the research that their donation will help support.”

Prof Chalmers continued, “As we walked through the lab, I was struck by how much the research resonated with the family's experiences caring for Robert.

“When we discussed our research into infections, they mentioned how Robert frequently dealt with infections throughout his life. We talked about diagnostic tests, and they shared how he often submitted sputum samples, always eager to understand what was going on in his lungs, but sometimes left without answers. It was clear during the tour how closely their personal experiences aligned with the research we’re doing, which really emphasises that our work is patient centred.”

Professor Chalmers also highlighted the promise of new treatments, “Unfortunately, there haven’t been any new treatments for COPD in around 30 years, but thanks to medical research, that’s changing. It’s exciting to say that new treatments are now on the horizon, thanks to research including the kind of research that is going on in Dundee. 

“These advancements are coming, and they’re going to have a significant impact in the very near future.”