Tom Smith was described by Sir Ian McGeechan as “…the finest Scotland player of the professional era”.  He played for Scotland and the British & Irish Lions as well as for Northampton and Brive. 

Very sadly Tom died in April 2022, aged just 50, from colon cancer.  Tom became an Ambassador for 40tude after his diagnosis in November 2019. Tom wanted to ensure that others did not have to go through what he and his family went through. 

As an Ambassador, Tom used his profile, especially in the rugby community, to raise awareness of the incidence of colon cancer and the importance of being aware of the symptoms and to act on any symptoms by visiting a doctor. He was a strong advocate of getting tested for this type of cancer, which can be treated in most cases if it is detected early.

Tom supported several of 40tude’s fund raising challenges. He personally took part in the Wounded Lions 500 Challenge in 2020, cycling the first 20 miles despite being in the middle of a course of chemotherapy at the time.

In memory of Tom, 40tude's funding has established the Tom Smith Research Fellowship, to investigate the genetics of hereditary colon cancer.  We have also set up the Tom Smith Screening Fund to enable more people to get tested at an earlier age, in response to reports that rates of colon cancer in the under 50s are increasing rapidly.

If you would like to make a donation to 40tude inspired by Tom click the red button above.

For more information about colon cancer, its symptoms and how to get tested please click here

For more information about the vital research that 40tude is funding, please see our Projects Funded page

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