Professor Scarlett McNally about to start the Jo Cox Way
Medics usually steer well clear of anything claimed to be a ‘miracle cure’, but not Professor Scarlett McNally. The orthopaedic surgeon and MJA member is taking a very special road trip to champion the benefits of exercise and celebrate life.
Scarlett, who was lead author on a on a report called Exercise the miracle cure is one of 83 riders taking part in this year’s Jo Cox Way — a 288-mile bike ride to raise money for the Jo Cox Foundation which was established in memory of the the MP who was murdered by a far-right terrorist in 2016.
She explains, “Cycling and walking make people healthier — by over 30% — and happier and reduce demand on the NHS and social care.
“Five years ago, I was diagnosed with myeloma (a blood cancer) and some heart failure (cardiac amyloidosis). I credit getting through a stem cell transplant to getting an electric-bike to do my daily ‘dose’ — as well as to our amazing NHS.”
Scarlett, is now back at work as a surgeon part-time and also writes a column in the British Medical Journal – “mostly on how to fix the NHS” — and is the current president of the Medical Women’s Federation – which aims to encourage women doctors to excel, to reduce sexism and harassment and to improve the nation’s health. (You can access them via her website .
She says, “I hate asking people for money. But we all get serotonin and oxytocin from doing a good deed, being part of something and having fun (and exercise). So, please, give any donation.
“We each only get one unique and precious life. The Jo Cox Foundation is about connecting people, including projects to reduce loneliness, support women in leadership, encourage respect, build communities, promote better behaviours and value each person.
“This is across all political parties, organisations and individuals. We really do have #moreincommon.”
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