As difficult as this is, I have taken the decision to share my Cancer journey with you to create awareness, and in the hope that you will get behind me to raise as much as possible for my chosen charities. It won’t change my outcome but it can make a difference for so many others……..

Let’s start from the beginning, my relationship with Cancer otherwise known as the ‘Big C’ began some time ago with developing symptoms back in January 2021, after many tests, scans and diagnostics in March 2022 my verdict was in,

Diagnosis; 1) Advanced Gastric Cancer 2) Prostate Cancer

I was to discover and quickly realised that this terrible disease has no conscience whatsoever, it will attack anyone, irrespective of Sex, Age, Race, Financial Status, Social Standing or Religious Beliefs.

After the diagnosis My thoughts moved to, ‘Treatment’, I can beat this! Sadly not, I found myself in a desperately sad situation of having to accept that there were no treatment options available to extend my life and especially in the case of my Gastric Cancer

“Why Me-Poor Me” followed the devastating consultation that left me overwhelmed with sadness, bringing lots of different fears, emotions and tears. However, the professionalism of the NHS team from their care to understanding and even the equipment used has been an outstanding and comforting experience.

My wonderful family, my wife along with children - my five Diamonds, have and continue to give me truly fantastic support, because of them and mentally being a very much strong-willed individual, not wishing to let “The world pass me by" and most certainly having no desire whatsoever of becoming a Couch Potato, wallowing in self-pity, I quickly pulled myself out of this negative state of mind, accepting that “Teamwork makes the Dream work” and that every day is a precious gift, hence I chose to continue working within an industry that I have been part of for more than 52 years.

Today as I continue to slide down Life’s Helter- Skelter, I have made a conscious decision to go Public with my illness to generate awareness of this terrible disease, where early detection is key and certainly in the case of prostate cancer is treatable. I know so many of you reading this will have your own experiences with Cancer whether personally or with family and friends.

If I can make a difference for others I will and that’s why I would like to raise funds towards the wonderful work and ongoing research done by Cancer Research UK, Prostate Cancer UK and Macmillan Cancer Support.

I can’t raise any large funds alone however, collectively, linking arms to form an army, we can make amazing things happen when a lot of people donate a little.

I would be grateful for any contribution no matter how small, every penny counts. Any funds raised will be split evenly between the above three charities and administered on my behalf by my two powers of attorney (my children).

Look out for updates on events and sponsorship opportunities as me and my team make plans to raise this goal of £15,000 so I can give back just a little.

My final word of advice to you, all of my friends, should you for whatever reason feel unwell, please speak to your GP.

Kindest regards and please continue to stay safe and well !!!!

Keith Payne

PS, Remember, keep checking yourselves, it could save your Life