We are fundraising for Pancreatic Cancer UK

I was diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer in January 2023.

But …

I was lucky.

Not only was the diagnosis quick, surgery was conducted only 3 weeks later. This speed was largely due to the efforts of PCUK. Some years ago they had instigated a fast-track programme with the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, which not only reduced waiting times, but also combined two operations in one. The result was that I and many others, had to suffer much less and the NHS saved significant amounts of money.

After the operation, I went on to have chemotherapy, during which I undertook my first Big Step Forward (July 2023). This encouraged me to get out and enjoy the countryside, which I hadn't done for a long time. I was amazed at and humbled by people's generosity in sponsoring me and together we raised over £3,000.

PCUK have helped me in so many ways: their wonderful Nurse Helpline has offered advice at every step in my journey on issues such as diet, medication and chemotherapy. They also have an ongoing programme of medical research which strives for earlier diagnosis and better treatment for all present and future sufferers.

So this year, to thank them again and help them continue their efforts, I'm undertaking a 15 mile walk in the local area with my wife Alexandra. We will be walking from our house, just below the Cotswold Edge to the top of Cleeve Common, the highest point in the area. This is something I feel privileged to be able to do given my situation only 18 months ago.

Thank you.