In May 2023 I saw an Facebook advert for PSA tests in Salisbury, despite having no symptoms, it seemed a good idea to get checked out and a blood test was a lot less daunting than the ‘digital check’. So, off I went on a Saturday afternoon. On Monday morning a red alert E Mail arrived telling me my PSA level was 40.5 against an expected 3 to 4! Various scans and biopsies followed, resulted in me being told that my advanced prostrate cancer had spread outside into my lymph nodes and I was given a Gleason score of 9.

I have had exceptionally good treatment, am on hormone therapy and had a month of radiotherapy. For the last 6 months my PSA has been less than 0.01, so it appears matters are now under control, although the hormone therapy continues for another eighteen months.This has had many odd side affects, the strangest being making my hair grow, and areas previously been bald are now flourishing with relish, so I now sport the fullest head of hair I have had in some 40 years.

Whilst having my hospital treatment, it was harrowing to see so many young children facing cancer, so I have decided to try and help. Not only will I let my hair continue to grow, I plan to ride an horse (of suitably sturdy nature) up the gallops at Seamus Mullins’ stables in December. My involvement with the yard has been so helpful during my treatment, so it seems particularly poignant . Only problem… I haven’t sat on an horse for some 55 years!

So… please do help me in my quest to raise plenty. When we fix the exact date for the event, this will of course be publicised

A LITTLE ABOUT CHILDREN WITH CANCER UK……

Our vision is a world where every child and young person survives cancer.

For 35 years, Children with Cancer UK has funded much needed research into the causes of childhood cancers, and the development of better, kinder treatments as well as funding initiatives that support children and their families through cancer treatment and beyond.

Our work has contributed significantly to a marked increase in childhood cancer survival rates and improved quality of life for patients.