Fred Hargate from Brinsworth in Rotherham is a bucket collector for Macmillan Cancer Support.

He started in April 2019 and has an ambition to raise £29,000 for the charity which could fund a Macmillan Cancer Support Worker.

Fred’s determination to raise this money is due to the support he received after his wife sadly passed away to brain cancer in 2017 and the support he received shortly after, following his own cancer diagnosis.

"I started to feel ill, I knew I had an issue with my prostate but because my PSA levels were low the GP kept saying it’s not cancer. I started feeling really down because I just knew something wasn’t right. In the end the Practice Nurse said to me, “Tell the GP you want a referral, you know if something’s not right. You know your own body.”

Fred asked for a referral and underwent tests at the Hallamshire Hospital in Sheffield.  At the clinic Fred was told the good news is it’s not bladder cancer, the bad news is its prostate cancer.

"Seems strange to say but it felt like an escape to know I had cancer, I was so angry about losing my wife, I just couldn’t see the point anymore. I’d lost all confidence in medical professionals at that point.”

 Fred had support from the charity through the Macmillan Advocacy Service in Rotherham. “We went through everything and I came out with a different outlook on life.”  

Fred is still receiving cancer treatment at his GP practice. He wanted to give something back for the support he had and to make sure other people receive the same support.

 "I’ve had some low points and everyone should be able to have the support I received”.

Thanks for supporting my fundraising. Macmillan Cancer Support is here to help everyone with cancer live life as fully as they can, providing physical, financial and emotional support. So whatever cancer throws your way, we’re right right there with you.Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs.