“I had surgery soon after and thankfully this was sufficient treatment, so I did not have to have radiotherapy or chemotherapy. I am under the care of Dr Oladipo and Dr Carser at the Cancer Centre, and Mel, my specialist nurse, is on hand should I have any questions or queries. I have check-ups every month to ensure that everything is still ok following my surgery.

“The funding that Friends of the Cancer Centre provides for post’s like Mel’s is absolutely vital for those affected by cancer in Northern Ireland. Having a knowledgeable voice at the end of the phone or an email, who can reassure, even when you feel like you might be asking a silly question, is such wonderful support to have. Mel’s care and guidance has been so important during my experience of cancer treatment.

“I love to play golf in my spare time, and once I felt well enough, I was determined that I would help raise awareness and funds for Friends of the Cancer Centre. Earlier this year, along with three friends, I completed a 72 hole golf challenge, 4 rounds in one day, raising £1,660 for the charity. I am delighted that the money we have raised will go towards supporting people when they need it most, just as Mel has done for me. I saw this as a way to give back to the staff who have supported me so well, through doing something I really enjoy. We are hoping to make this a yearly challenge to support the charity, and hopefully it will be even bigger and better next year!

“It is thanks to the wonderful care I received that I am able to enjoy playing golf. I would encourage all men to check themselves regularly, to get to know what is normal for you, pick up on any changes quickly and get the care you need if you find anything you’re worried about. Don’t leave it too late, there is fantastic care and support available if you need it.”