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As many of you will know, Stuart's wife Gill was diagnosed with Oesophical Cancer in April 2023. After a scary and worrying 18 months, she is now recovered from the op and living life to the full!

We met so wonderful people on our journey, and now its time to say thank you to the wonderful guys and gals at Heartburn Cancer UK.

My amazing friends Gary Speakman, Martin Jump and Mike Ashton will play 4 Rounds of Golf in 24 hours in 4 countries with me on 14th and 15th June in England France Belgium and Holland to raise much needed funds for the charity.

Oesophageal cancer is the 7th most common cause of cancer death overall in the UK, and is the 4th most common cause of cancer deaths in males. Around 8000 people die each year of Oesophical Cancer and rates in men have risen by 57% since the early 1970s. In women the rates have increased by 9%.

In the UK 8,000 people die of oesophageal cancer each year. 59% of cases diagnosed in the UK are preventable compared to 38% of other cancers.

Heartburn Cancer UK raises vital awareness about the dangers of persistent heartburn, gastro oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) and Barrett’s oesophagus - conditions that can sometimes lead to more serious disease, including oesophageal cancer. HCUK supports people living with these conditions and works to improve patient outcomes. They actively advocate for wider implementation of the capsule sponge test to support earlier diagnosis and support multiple research projects aimed at improving detection and care. HCUK also provides a wealth of trusted information for both patients and clinicians.

Heartburn is an extremely common condition, affecting up to 1 in 4 adults in the UK and Heartburn is described as a burning sensation in the chest. It is caused by acid reflux – stomach acid passing up from the stomach into the oesophagus toward the throat. Persistent reflux is also known as gastro-oesophageal reflux disease or GORD.

While most attacks occur during the day, some experience problems at night. These people often have a chronic cough which is caused by stomach acid irritating the throat.

If constant heartburn or indigestion reflux persists for three weeks or more the individual should speak to their GP as soon as possible.

Many people are unaware of this and HeartburnUK is trying to change UK perceptions. The earlier a problem is highlighted and addressed, then better the outcome is likely to be.

Please give what you can!