A year ago, a poolside phone call changed Archie Goodburn's life. The Scottish 50m breaststroke record holder was dreaming of the Paris Olympics, but his training had been hindered by unusual symptoms: seizures, numbness on his left side, and a feeling of déjà-vu. After undergoing tests, the results were devastating—Goodburn was diagnosed with brain cancer at just 22 years old.

The Diagnosis

Goodburn's diagnosis revealed three 'low grade' tumours that were inoperable due to their spread through his brain. This news came as a shock to the young athlete, who had reached the semi-finals of the 50m and 100m breaststroke at the 2022 Commonwealth Games. "Going from a healthy, young person to suddenly being told you have this ticking time-bomb in your brain... it was utter shock," Goodburn recalls.

Continuing the Fight

Despite the grim prognosis, Goodburn remains undeterred. He continues to train for upcoming competitions, including the World University Games and the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. His determination extends beyond the pool; he is also committed to raising awareness about brain cancer and its impact on young people.

Raising Awareness

Goodburn is painfully aware that many others with brain cancer have significantly less time than he does. "I'm in the fortunate position where I haven't been diagnosed with a glioblastoma," he explains. "I may have considerably longer, and I want to use that time to shout about this horrible disease."

Looking Ahead

Goodburn's future is uncertain, but he remains hopeful. "I see the future in different ways on different days," he says. "Some days I wake up feeling positive, hoping for advancements that can help. Other days, I remember I have brain cancer, and there is an end point to my life much earlier than it should be."

Support and Inspiration

Goodburn draws strength from his family, friends, and coach, Mat Trodden, who marvels at his protégé's resilience. Within a month of his first surgery, Goodburn won a Scottish title and later equalled his personal best at the world short course.

A Dream of Betterment

Goodburn dreams of bettering himself despite his diagnosis. "Cancer is something that we look at as a downhill, slippery slope, but I dream of being better than the last time I tried to do something," he says. "That lights a wee fire in me when a lot of other things put the fire out."

Goodburn's story is one of courage, resilience, and hope. As he continues to train and compete, he also strives to make a difference in the fight against brain cancer.