Thanks for taking the time to visit our JustGiving page.

We are raising money for Rotherham Hospice for the wonderful support they are giving to our friend Des.


Yorkshire born and bred, Des is a family man above all, who has been married to his lovely wife Cath for 44 years. Des says Cath has been his rock. Together they have raised 5 children and have 9 grandchildren.


Des has worked many jobs in his life. He spent 10 years in the steelworks after an apprenticeship in mechanical engineering. Then a complete change when he became a milkman where he stayed for 19 years! No doubt he kept his customers entertained with his many jokes. He also managed to make it onto the screen when he featured in a television advert for milk.


Then im 2006, Des joined South Yorkshire Police  as a Police Community Support officer at Rawmarsh. A perfect role for such a friendly and kind man. It was here we all met him over the years.


Des had been planning to retire at the age of 66 in August 2022. In May 2021 Des went to his GP after feeling tired. He was told he had jaundice on Monday, and on Thursday the same week he was in hospital where he found out the devastating news that he had bile duct cancer. In August 2021, Des decided that he didn't want to continue with chemo. He wants to enjoy the time he has with his wonderful family. He was told he had 4 to 5 months to live. And here he is in September 2022. Still enjoying precious times with his family. Still looking great and still making us laugh.


Des has been no doubt called many things in his life... but a "mental vitamin" sums him up well. Never giving up, always there with a joke or a laugh to cheer you up. We miss him at work as he made the day a happier one. He could surely fill a book with his jokes and stories.


His GP has called him a "freak of nature". We think he is a legend! Staying as strong and positive as he is. Des says he wouldn't change a thing in his life. Not many people get to say that.


Rotherham Hospice are doing an amazing job supporting Des and Cath. They are there 24/7 and are helping with pain control. We aim to raise as much as possible for them to help them continue supporting those who need their help.