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On the 7th October last year I called to see my doctor to try and determine what this rather strange and sudden pain in my right leg was all about, thinking it may be a strain or just some bruising picked up along the way. By the 28th, just 3 weeks later and following numerous unpleasant examinations I was given the news we all dread "sorry John but you have Cancer and to make matters slightly worse you also have a secondary Cancer". 

To say this came as a shock would be an understatement but I knew straight away that I had to take everything on board and deal with it in the only way I know how and that was to be strong not only for myself but also for all of the people I love. I have alsways had the opinion that happiness helps cure all ills and that it is reciprocal so if I am happy then those around me will be happy too.

I realise the challenge that lies ahead is a huge task and one that I am more than ready to confront especially given the support I have received from all my family and friends who have all been amazing in their help in keeping my spirits high.

Having very strong links to the GB Climbing scene I realised this was an opportunity not to be missed and decided along with other friends to pool all our resources and try and raise as much money as possible in the hope that one day a cure could be found for this ever so present desease and in future others wouldn't have to endure the dilemma we find ourselves in.

Fundraising began in earnest at the CWIF, a climbing event in Sheffield in March and over £3,000 was raised for Macmillan Cancer care on the day and in May we are hoping to overtake that amount at the European Youth Championships being held at Ratho near Edinburgh with the help of our friends from around Europe and members of the GB Team. Prior to this friends have helped arrange a music event on the 5th May at the Canberra Club at BAE near Blackburn with Dj's and bands donating their time to help fundraise on behalf of Cancer Research UK.

I would of course like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for all their love, support and efforts in helping raise money for such a worthy cause,

Love

John x