Firstly, my mum has previously had and beaten breast cancer, which I have previously done a fund raiser for. Now both my father and father-in-law are in the process of being treated/monitored after being diagnosed with Prostate Cancer. I really wanted to take on a challenge to raise funds to support Prostate Cancer UK. As a family we have done runs, cycles and walks between us so thought why not all 3, so that’s how we came up with 3 points versus cancer.

I only found out about Prostate Cancer after taking part in a Barry Kilby Prostate Cancer Appeal PSA testing day at a Rochdale AFC home match back in 2019 as the Community Trust Manager, feeling it was appropriate to attend, especially as Keith Hill, Rochdale’s manager at the time was there as well.

I was informed that there were no issues from that test but following a second PSA test the following season was diagnosed with a Gleason 6 Prostate Cancer, which really knocked me for six.

Since then, I have been treated extremely well by the NHS with actions including three monthly assessments now down to half yearly to reassure me that everything is fine. I am really glad that I took part in the PSA Testing as I would be walking around unaware of my condition, not receiving the present attention but now looking to the future in a better frame of mind. I’m also taking part in the run and walk to show that at 70 years of age, I’m able to take part in regular exercise, which benefits me both physically and mentally, but the main message is that men over 50 should take a blood test, it could change lives dramatically.