We're walking 14 miles for Simon's Mount Vernon Charity Day, who is walking you ask…. Steve, Lou, Paul, Matt and Harry and none of us are walkers so wish us luck!!

Here's Simon's story.

In October 2021, he heard the words no one ever wants to hear...

He was diagnosed with prostate cancer. The plan was to have surgery in December to remove his prostate, but COVID had other ideas, and the operation was delayed until February 2022.

That delay changed everything. By the time he finally had surgery, the cancer had spread to the prostate bed, meaning he now faced 45 rounds of radiotherapy. After months of treatment, he had an agonising six-month wait to find out if it had worked.

He held on to hope, but when the results came back, they weren’t what he wanted to hear. Cancer cells were still there. So, he braced himself for another 40 rounds of treatment, determined to fight on.

He was initially told he was cancer free, words everyone wants to hear! But unfortunately it has returned in his shoulder and spine. He will soon begin radiotherapy for this and is super hopeful to get through this once again!

Throughout this journey, he was under the care of Mount Vernon Cancer Centre. The doctors, nurses, and staff weren’t just doing their jobs, they truly cared. Their kindness, compassion, and dedication to each and every person they treat is amazing.

Within the hospital grounds there is also an incredible small charity—the Linda Jackson Centre. Run by selfless volunteers, they guide patients through radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and the challenges that come after treatment. Their support makes a huge difference for every patient that walks their doors.

Now, we want to give back as it’s not just Simon that has been affected by cancer but so many more of us and our families, some of us have been lucky and some not sadly and have lost loved ones. We have people fighting right now to beat this and we need to do all we can to help and support them in any way we can. Our goal is to raise money through a sponsored Charity day for all! This will take place on the 5th of July at The Plough Tyttenhanger, both for Mount Vernon and the Linda Jackson Centre.

I know the ask is big and times are tough, but any donations, big or small, you would truly be supporting me and the team and all of these amazing organisations to support others in their cancer journey!