My Story

Following a short illness that began in October 2024, my world was turned upside down when, in January 2025, I was diagnosed with Stage 3, Grade 3 Ampullary Cancer – an aggressive and rare form of the disease. Hearing those words felt like the ground had been pulled from beneath us. This news obviously came as a huge shock to our entire family, and in those first few days and weeks, it felt as though time stood still and everything we knew and loved was suddenly uncertain.

From that moment on, life became a whirlwind of hospitals, tests, scans and procedures. I underwent two minor operations at the Heath Hospital, followed by a major nine-hour surgery at Morriston Hospital that tested every ounce of my strength and courage. Then came four long months of intense chemotherapy at Velindre Cancer Centre. I’ve had some hidings during my rugby career but this was by far the hardest thing that I’ve had to endure. It was absolutely gruelling – physically, mentally, emotionally – but through it all, I was surrounded by an incredible circle of love and support from my family and friends that gave me the strength to get through those darkest days, and I will be forever humbled and grateful.

Then, in October 2025, came the news that we had been praying for – my scans showed no further evidence of cancer, and my blood tumour markers had returned to normal – I felt a huge weight had been lifted from my shoulders. Although I’m not completely out of the woods and still face minor complications, I am now on the long but hopeful road to recovery and have started my 5-year surveillance under Velindre. I’m learning to embrace my ‘new normal’ with a heart full of appreciation for every single day.

Throughout this journey, I have seen first-hand the dedication, care, and brilliance of our NHS. The staff at Velindre Cancer Centre – known as the Hospital of Hope – truly live up to that name. Their compassion and commitment have changed my life. They are heroes in every sense of the word. That’s why I want to give something back.

Velindre Cancer Charity is the official charity of Velindre University NHS Trust, and is a hugely deserving charitable organisation that cannot survive without the help of fundraising and donations. They have been providing specialist treatment and supportive care to cancer patients and families for well over 65 years. The money that is raised for Velindre helps to fund incredible groundbreaking research and clinical trials, cutting edge treatments, the most amazing nurses, equipment and so much more.

It is for this reason that on Saturday 14th March 2026, we will be taking on Tonka’s Trek – walking from Velindre Cancer Centre to Pontypridd RFC, Sardis Road approx. 10 miles along the Taff Trail – to raise vital funds for Velindre. After the journey I’ve endured, this walk will be a celebration of life, hope and gratitude – a small step compared to the mountain I’ve already climbed.