My cancer journey probably began around 50 years ago when, whilst serving in HM Forces, spending months abroad in very hot, sunny climates, my skin suffered from sun damage. Nobody told us in those days that we should use SPF 50 !

In 2020 I developed a skin sore on my right ear which never seemed to heal. Biopsies were taken of the affected areas and it was diagnosed as a Squamous Cell Carcinoma which was excised in December 2020. In January 2021 I was advised by my Medical Practice that, as a result of the biopsies, there was no cause for concern at this time.

During the next few months a lump developed on the right side of my neck. It wasn't painful but started to grow. In August 2021 I contacted my GP Practice and it was diagnosed, over the phone, to probably be a blocked saliva gland.

By January 2022 the lump was growing and it was becoming uncomfortable. On 27th January 2022, it was confirmed by ultra sound and biopsy that the lump was not a blocked saliva gland but was a sizable tumor growing in my neck.

Following CT and MRI scans, I was admitted to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary and a total neck dissection to remove the tumor and lymph nodes was carried out on 24th February 2022.

I started Radiotherapy on 23rd May. The treatment was daily for 6 weeks and I was fortunate to be treated on the new, revolutionary Ethos machine at ARI. This machine is extremely accurate and minimizes damage to surrounding tissue and reduces side effects

One year on from my operation I am still experiencing stiffness in my neck and shoulder but I am confident that I will be back playing golf again in the Spring.

My latest CT scan shows that I'm currently cancer free.

Aberdeen and North Center for Haematology, Oncology and Radiotherapy, the ANCHOR Unit, is situated within Aberdeen Royal Infirmary and treats people from all over the North East of Scotland who have had a cancer or haematology diagnosis.

Friends of Anchor is a charity which raises funds and recruits volunteers to provide extra support for those attending the ANCHOR Unit.

I am fundraising for Friends of Anchor in order to help reach the target of £2 million for the new ANCHOR Unit due to open later this year.

All of Friends of Anchor overheads are covered by local company Balmoral Group, so you can rest assured that 100% of your donation will do great work.

I understand that in the current climate, finances are stretched but I would be grateful if you could make a donation, however large or small by following the link to my Just Giving page.

Your donation will make a huge difference to the 65,000 people who will walk through the doors of the ANCHOR Unit each year.

Thank you for your donation,

George