10 years ago on Feb the 1st I gave up smoking, this was due to the birth of my Daughter Maddy and wanted to ensure I was not smoking near her. Had Chicken pox just after giving up and then suffered what I thought at the time was a viral infection which knocked me flat for two weeks. After that felt great , full of energy and loving life. It was then I discovered a small lump on my neck. Left it for a week or so but didn't go down, so went off to the doctors. Had a scan and was given all clear as potentially an infected sweat gland. It was then I was given the option to have it removed. Having paid for medical insurance all this time decided to go for it.

First meeting with surgeon proved important as he pretty much disagreed with GP diagnosis and told me it was more than likely cancer. That came like a bolt from the blue and the rest of the conversation was a blur. From that point on life went on a combination of fast forward and slow motion. I quickly received a biopsy and it was confirmed I had L & H nodular Lymphoma. Quick trip to surgery and it was removed, early diagnosis pretty much saved me.

After surgery had a short course of radiotherapy in the UK lasting 2 weeks. The importance of giving up smoking became apparent as if I had continued to smoke would have had to have 8 weeks radiotherapy and would have had increased chance of damage to taste and vocal cords.

So here I am 10 years later, another daughter Bella and a fixation on cycling. Whilst I would not recommend cancer diagnosis it does put things into perspective and worries I used to have no longer matter. This year I have decided to ride the length of Great Britain , Lands End to John o Groats with the Deloittes' Ride across Britain. 959 miles, 59000 ft of climbing and no engines. My entrance money has gone to support Para Olympic athletes but would love to raise some money to increase the chances of others given the news that they or a loved one has cancer.