12 months ago just after my 60th birthday I was unexpectedly diagnosed with throat cancer. Whilst this diagnosis was shocking I was filled with resolve to approach the aggressive 7 week treatment regime as an endurance event not as a patient. On the morning of my first treatment I ran up to the top of the beautiful Porter Valley to watch the sun rise. I wondered if I would ever run again. My treatment involved daily radiotherapy to my throat and chemotherapy. I was surrounded by fellow cancer sufferers and as the fabulous staff at WestonPark Hospital supported me I was repeatedly told how well I was coping. I put this down to my lifetime of commitment to sport. I have been a rock climber, British championship fell runner, completed a Bob Graham Round aged 40, an Ironman Triathlon aged 57 and numerous other endurance events. I am used to never giving up and pushing myself to the limit of endurance. I walked to every single treatment session clocking up 130 miles. I lost half my hair , my sense of taste and ability to produce saliva. This may never return. However I am alive, my cancer has gone and I feel extemely fortunate and priviliged to be able to support this amazing charity " Challenge cancer through adventure" . The charity is giving me the opportunity to climb the Matterhorn and in return I would like to raise as much awareness and money as possible to support fellow cancer sufferers to experience sport and adventure to help them through. Please donate absolutely any amount that you can afford. No matter how small. You will make an amazing difference to someone. Thankyou John.