Around six years ago I was diagnosed with Malignant Melanoma.

I had an initial diagnosis of Basal Cell Carcinoma. However, after a biopsy and a 6 week wait I walked in to a room to be given the news that in fact I had Malignant Melanoma, stage 2b and swift medical treatment was required. Sitting and listening to a team of medical professionals telling me I had Cancer was devastating. It was like time had stopped. I was father to 2 wonderful children both under 3. Husband to an amazing wife and in my late 30’s. The psychological impact was massive. Telling my parents, close family and friends was truly the hardest thing I had to do.

I had a wide local excision and opted to have my sentinel lymph nodes removed. Then I had to wait to find out whether the Melanoma had spread. Fortunately, on my sons 3rd birthday, I had the news that I was clear.

I have never felt so relieved. What has followed has been the rockiest of roads. Quarterly, six monthly check ups have been and gone. I am still monitored, but it’s now an annual process. I have regular ocular checks after a birth mark was found inside my eye and I’m down for regular endoscopy examinations after a further scare.

There is the psychological side of it too. My journey has had its ups and downs. I am able to be open and honest about it. These things have huge impacts on individuals and families, our experiences have changed my outlook and I believe made us all stronger.

I started Wombourne Allstars Social Veterans to help men, over 35, in the local community get out, socialise, play football and improve personal health and well being. The club has grown with a regular turn out of 20 plus players and around 40 in the what’s app group. We play in the South Staffordshire Veterans League Division 4 and socialise/have a kick around each Friday.

Please help Melanoma UK to educate and support in this field. Any donation you can make is welcome.

Thank you