As someone who was deemed very young to be given such a frightening diagnosis (I was diagnosed at the age of 48), I found it hard to find other men of a similar age and outlook to share my thoughts and fears with. As men, we’re often reluctant to talk about our feelings but being thrust into this unwelcome situation really drove home how hard it was to find anyone relatable to talk to, even if I wanted to.

As a result of my experience, I’ve made it my mission to get men facing cancer talking so they can release some of the tensions of dealing with their cancer and share the burden of the challenges involved. In the few instances that I’ve found people in the same situation, it’s been liberating from a practical and emotional perspective. Be assured, the cancer chat doesn’t last long. It’s far better to talk about the ‘normal stuff’ and those who know me know that everyday life for me revolves around sport. I know I’m not alone in that; an interest in some kind of sport forms a common ground for a lot of men and is a great ice breaker and conversation starter. The Cancer Club is all about bringing men with cancer together at a variety of sporting events to provide not just emotional support from others ‘in the same boat’ but to provide an outlet, a way to escape the everyday grind created by cancer and to bring some light-hearted relief to our lives.

It is my hope that the work of The Cancer Club will help people in a similar position to me achieve a greater sense of wellbeing, as well as creating a cause for good that will continue long after I’m gone.