This time last year I didn't know my thymus from my elbow…

In March ‘22  I caught Covid. This developed into pneumonia and I ended up in A&E. An X-Ray to investigate the pneumonia showed something unusual, a CT Scan revealed a large thymoma, a rare cancer had grown to the size of a coconut in my chest!  This was a real shock, it seemed unbelievable that I had not been aware of it growing and compressing my lung and other organs for many years. The primary treatment was surgery and the thymoma was removed in June. A follow-up CT Scan in September confirmed the success of the operation and indicated no need for radiotherapy or chemotherapy at that stage. What a relief! 

When the Thymoma diagnosis was made I found the support and specialist information available from ThymicUK to be invaluable. Thymic cancers are rare and the information from ThymicUK provided a context and meaning to the various stages of investigation and treatment. It is a small charity, highly valued by patients and medical staff. 

I had a couple of low points when the prognosis was uncertain and potentially grim. It was then I decided that given the opportunity I would try and raise funds for ThymicUK by attempting my longest ever bike ride.

So here I am, almost one year on, seeking your support as I plan to ride 1000 miles between Land's End and John O'Groats during June 2023.  

Finally I cannot tell this story without recognising the great care, treatment, and kindness I received from all the NHS and Macmillan staff. They were brilliant, and I am truly grateful to each and every one of them.

Thanks

Ian

I will update this page as the ride plan develops and will post my progress as the wheels are turning.

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