I was diagnosed with non- Hodgkin's lymphoma in November 2013 at the age of 49 and I was referred to the royal Liverpool hospital to have treatment at the Linda McCartney centre . I was diagnosed at stage IV and I was offered to take part in a clinical trial which I accepted. I commenced my treatment in early December of six cycles of chemotherapy which I was given as a day patient  at the royal followed by three weeks of radiotherapy at clatterbridge hospital on the Wirral. I had to attend the Linda McCartney centre every three weeks during my treatment where my consultant haematologist kept an eye on me to monitor my response to my treatment. I was also cared for by a specialist team which where responsible for the trail drug I was taking. During this period from pre diagnosis to completion of my treatment , I received fabulous care and attention from both my consultants, trial  nurse and all the staff on 7 Y DAY ward where I received my chemotherapy.  They made me feel very relaxed and nothing was ever too much trouble for anyone. I also got the same help and support over at clatterbridge when I received radiotherapy . I was told by my consultant in March 2015 that I was in complete clinical remission and I now attend the Linda McCartney centre every six months for follow up blood tests and a general examination. I could not thank everyone connected to the hospital enough for everything that they have done for both myself and my family during the last couple of years and ongoing. I had to then leave my employment due to my illness not enabling me to carry on with my position as depot manager in a meat wholesale company which I had worked for since I was seventeen years of age , which was very difficult but I needed to take things easier in my life and re- evaluate my future. I want to try and give something back to the hospital and particular the Linda McCartney centre so I have decided to do a walk to try and raise awareness for non - Hodgkin's lymphoma and all other blood cancers. I am walking from my home to the royal Liverpool hospital which is eight miles. I wasn't sure back in the days of diagnosis that this would of been possible for me to do, but thanks to all the care and support I was given I now feel well enough to do something hopefully to help other people in a similar situation to myself. I am looking forward now to keeping fit and completing my walk and I feel very positive about my future thanks to everyone at the Linda McCartney centre . My son Liam and my wife Michelle who nursed me through my treatment  will both be helping me raise funds and keep me company on my walk to the royal Liverpool hospital .                

YNWA - you'll never walk alone.