Hi Everyone - I hope that you are all well.

Every 27 minutes a friend or loved one is diagnosed with lymphoma - the most common blood cancer in the UK.

Last year I was one of those people.

I found a lump, went to my GP and was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin diffuse large B-cell lymphoma.  It was a shock.  Then began the tests, scans, staging, treatment plan, tears, worry and all the other things that come with the rollercoaster that is cancer.

With the support of family, friends, University Hospitals of Derby & Burton NHS Foundation Trust, Lymphoma Action and Macmillan Cancer Support I am very pleased to say that last month I completed my treatment and my recent scan shows no sign of cancer!

What a relief it is.  I am humbled and so very grateful to everyone for their care and support.  It hasn’t been easy but I have tried to remain positive throughout.

I would like to emphasise how important it is to have any odd lumps and bumps checked out as soon as possible should you find one.  Please ensure you do regular self-checks and attend any routine screening appointments.  As my cancer was detected early it has been treatable.

So, during March I have set myself the 27x27 Song Challenge.

I will post 27 songs over 27 days on social media to raise awareness for the great work that Lymphoma Action do in supporting people affected by cancer.  I might even accept requests - we’ll have to see how it goes!

I have created this JustGiving page to share my progress and videos will be posted to Instagram and YouTube.  If you are able to make a donation that would be great but more importantly please share the challenge with your family, friends and colleagues to raise awareness for lymphoma and blood cancer.

https://www.instagram.com/27x27_song_challenge

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO_Frv92YRUl6CZ5bA2zYKg/videos

I’m off now to tune my guitar!

Thank you, take care

Andrew.