Latest news with #Maggie's
Scottish Sun
02-06-2025
- Health
- Scottish Sun
Dad ‘desperate for a holiday' blamed exhaustion on work only for his daughter to spot sign of killer ravaging his body
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) AN EXHAUSTED dad was desperate for a holiday - but he got a deadly diagnosis after his daughter spotted a subtle sign of the killer disease at the airport. Richard Bennett, 64, began to feel unwell in the days before his holiday to Portugal with his wife Lesly, 57, in May 2024. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 6 Richard Bennett with his daughter Sophie Credit: SWNS 6 The dad was diagnosed with cancer when his daughter noticed how yellow he looked after returning from his holiday Credit: SWNS 6 The swim coach was told he had stage 4 melanoma Credit: SWNS But the dad dismissed his symptoms as he was "desperate" to get away for a break. Despite the tiredness he felt, Richard put it down to working and his general lifestyle catching up with him. Whilst on holiday, his condition worsened, and Richard noticed changes in his urine and faeces, as well as feeling weaker and struggling to eat. When his daughter, Sophie, 23, picked them up for the airport and exclaimed, "Dad, you're yellow," Richard knew he needed to get help as jaundice had set in. He went to St John's hospital, Livingston before being transferred to Royal Infirmary Edinburgh where he was diagnosed with stage four melanoma - a form of skin cancer - which had moved from its original site and formed a mass on his pancreas. After attempting to overcome the "shock to the system", Richard has remained determined to focus on his work as a swim coach whilst training for a cycle ride to raise money for cancer charity Maggie's. He is currently undergoing immunotherapy once every four weeks to manage his condition. Richard, from Whitburn, West Lothian, said: "It was quite a shock to the system. "It was so difficult for myself and my family. "Even just believing cancer had come to your door and chosen you. Sun Health Explainer: Skin cancer and moles "When I went to the hospital, and I spoke to some of the specialists, they told me it was melanoma, and they told me it was stage four. "All the thoughts in my head was, 'This is it, curtains for me'. "I didn't think there was much of a future left. "I didn't realise that all that stage four means is that the cancer has moved from the original site to somewhere else." Richard initially struggled with coming to terms with the tag of 'stage four' associated with his condition. 6 Richard with his wife Lesley Credit: SWNS 6 Richard's cancer diagnosis was a huge blow to the family Credit: SWNS He said: "It's not necessarily a death sentence. "After reading Chris Hoy's book, I understood more about that, and it's made such a difference." Olympic cycling legend Sir Chris Hoy revealed in October 2024 that his stage 4 prostate cancer was terminal, after being initially diagnosed with cancer in September 2023. He published his autobiography All That Matters at the end of last year. Richard said: "I'm trying to be strong for the kids at the swimming club, and when I reflect, there's no point in dwelling on it and being sad - I want to be upbeat and brave. What is melanoma, what are the symptoms and how can you prevent it? Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer that has a tendency to spread around the body. It is diagnosed 16,000 times per year, and tragically takes the lives of 2,340 people per year. The number of people being diagnosed with melanoma is increasing, and it is the 5th most common cancer in the UK. But it is also one of the most preventable cancers, with 86 per cent of cases in the UK avoidable. The best way to protect yourself from melanoma is to be sun safe - wear SPF every day, wear a hat and sunglasses and keep out of the sun in the hottest hours. It is also advised to avoid sunbeds. People who are fair-skinned, have blue or green eyes, blonde or red hair and a large number of freckles or moles are more likely to get skin cancer. Surgery is the main treatment for melanoma, particularly if it is found early. This will involve removing the affected tissue in the skin. Radiotherapy, medicines and chemotherapy are also sometimes used to try and stop the cancer from growing. Treatment depends on the severity of the disease. What are the symptoms? The key thing to look out for are changes to an existing mole, or a new mole on your skin. Most experts recommend using the simple 'ABCDE' rule to look for symptoms of melanoma skin cancer, which can appear anywhere on the body. There are five letters/words to remember: Asymmetrical – melanomas usually have two very different halves and are an irregular shape Border – melanomas usually have a notched or ragged border Colours – melanomas will usually be a mix of two or more colours Diameter – most melanomas are usually larger than 6mm in diameter Enlargement or elevation – a mole that changes size over time is more likely to be a melanoma A mole that changes size, shape or colour may be a melanoma. But other signs to look out for include moles that are: Swollen and sore Bleeding Itchy Crusty How deadly is it? Melanoma is a deadly form of skin cancer. The outlook of a person's disease depends on the stage of the cancer when it was diagnosed. Survival is better for women than it is for men. 'We don't know exactly why this is. It may be because women are more likely to see a doctor about their melanoma at an earlier stage,' says Cancer Research UK. The charity says that generally, statistics show that in England, more than 85 out of every 100 people (more than 85 per cent) will survive their melanoma for 10 years or more after they are diagnosed. Around 100 per cent in England diagnosed with melanoma at stage 1 - when the cancer cells are only in the top layer of skin - will survive for five years or more after drops to 80 per cent for stage 2. Some 70 per cent live for a further five years when they are diagnosed in stage 3, which is when the cancer has started to spread to nearby lymph nodes. At stage 4, when the melanoma has spread elsewhere in the body, almost 30 per cent survive their cancer for 5 years or more. Cancer Research says the stage 4 data does not account for age differences. Age can affect outlook and younger people have a better prognosis than older people. Age can affect outlook and younger people have a better prognosis than older people. What is melanoma? Melanocytes are cells in the skin that give us the colour of our skin because they produce a pigment, known as melanin. When you sit in the sun, melanocytes produce more pigment (a sun tan), which spreads to other skin cells to protect them from the sun's rays. But melanocytes are also where cancer starts. Too much UV causes sunburn, and this is a sign of damage to the skin's DNA. The UV triggers changes in the melanocytes, which makes the genetic material become faulty and cause abnormal cell growth. People who burn easily are more at risk of skin cancer because their cells do not produce as much pigment to protect their skin. Those with albinism are at the most risk because their skin produces no pigment at all. "I'm surrounded by positive people and that in itself gave me a focus to keep going. I'm glad that the swimming club is there in my life. "And my family - even though I feel quite fit and well, even though I'm still trying to push on, they're always making sure I'm okay. "You're so used to looking after your kids and your family but they just took over and looked after me. "If I could turn the clock back, I would have acted immediately. "I don't think it would have made a big difference in respect to my diagnosis, but I would encourage anybody if things are not normal, then please speak to your doctor." Raising awareness Richard has now turned his attention to the Tour De 4 cycling challenge on September 7 - a 38-mile loop around Glasgow in support of cancer research. He said: "I had a mountain bike, and I quite liked going down the trails, but when I read Chris' book, he spoke about arranging the Tour de 4. "I said to my wife that this is something I want to do - it would be good to raise awareness. "As a stage four cancer patient, it would be great to raise money and help people just like me. What does stage 4 melanoma mean? Stage 4 means the melanoma has spread to parts of the body away from the original cancer site and further than the nearby lymph nodes. Melanoma can spread to other areas on the skin or to soft tissue. Soft tissue includes muscles, nerves, fat, and blood vessels. Sometimes it can spread to more than one area. Other common places for melanoma to spread include your: Lymph nodes further away from the melanoma – which ones depend on where the melanoma is Lungs Liver Bones Brain Small bowel Source: CRUK "I've been blown away by the fundraiser - I was so touched by everybody's kindness. "A few days in, and it's over £900 - I can't believe that. "I'm still currently employed by Lloyds Banking, and their support has been outstanding, too." You can support Richard's fundraiser here.
The Courier
18-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Courier
42 best pictures as Run the Runway takes place in Dundee
Hundreds took part in Run the Runway at Dundee Airport on Saturday night. The inclusive sponsored event saw participants walk, run or skate the runway at Dundee Airport, raising funds and awareness for Maggie's. Maggie's is a charity that provides free support to anyone impacted by cancer. All participants received a Maggie's T-shirt, finisher medal and a goody bag. Our photographer Kim Cessford was there to capture the action.
Powys County Times
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Powys County Times
King and Queen host reception for cancer support charities at Buckingham Palace
The King and Queen paid tribute to grassroots cancer charities during a reception at Buckingham Palace on Wednesday. Charles and Camilla were joined by the Duchess of Gloucester for the event, which brought together campaigners, charity workers and individuals living with cancer, including some who have turned their personal experiences into powerful advocacy. Among the guests were Dame Deborah James's parents, Heather and Alistair James, who said the reception marked the pinnacle of their daughter's achievements since launching her Bowelbabe campaign before her death in 2022. Earlier, the King paid tribute to Dame Deborah, quoting her parting words: 'Find a life worth enjoying; take risks; love deeply; have no regrets; and always, always have rebellious hope.' He described her as 'an inspiration to us all, in sickness and in health', and said he was 'delighted' to welcome her parents to the reception. Alistair said: 'I think this ranks at the top,' referencing the recognition given to his daughter. He was also proudly wearing socks bearing the slogan Rebellious Hope – the phrase coined by Deborah in her final message to the public. 'For him, the King, to step up and talk about it, if he can, anyone can,' he added, referencing the monarch's recent openness about his own cancer diagnosis. Heather said: 'It was lovely being introduced to the King and I thanked him for being open with his diagnosis. 'I told him how much of a difference that would make to the public. 'I understand, like Kate's mother, how it feels when your daughter is going through cancer. 'They can definitely relate and understand those behind-the-scenes emotions.' She added: 'Deborah would have loved to have been here. For the King to mention her was amazing – we were very honoured. 'She was a force of nature.' The King and Queen met representatives from charities including Macmillan Cancer Support, Breast Cancer Now, Maggie's, Children's Hospice South West, and others working at a community level to offer both emotional and practical support to people affected by cancer. A message from The King in recognition of all who work to support cancer patients and their loved ones. This evening, Their Majesties will host representatives from community-based cancer organisations and initiatives to thank them for their tireless work in providing support to… — The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) April 30, 2025 The event was also attended by Sarah, Duchess of York, who recently spoke publicly about her own treatment for skin and breast cancer. Speaking at the palace, she praised the King's leadership and authenticity. 'There should be no egos in the charity world,' she said. 'I think the King is a brilliant example of revolutionising patronage – he does that in everything he does. 'He really listens, he wants to fix it, he wants to make a difference.' Reflecting on her own journey, the duchess added: 'I tell people to be proud of your scar. 'A teenager who died of cancer once told me, 'Always keep your sense of humour' – so I call my breasts Derek and Eric. 'For my daughter's 18th birthday, I took her to see a teenage cancer unit. It was very moving. I said, 'You need to see this.'' Guests at the reception also enjoyed a performance by the Change + Check Choir – a group of women who were diagnosed with breast cancer after spotting symptoms highlighted in a campaign on ITV's Lorraine. TV presenter Lorraine Kelly, who performed as part of the choir, said: 'Cancer affects all of us – and we've done things we never thought we would do.' Helen Addis, the campaign's founder and a producer on Lorraine, described the evening as 'absolutely unbelievable'. 'The one thing that's brought us all together is breast cancer,' she said. 'To do something so positive on a platform like this – it doesn't get much bigger than this. 'The King was commending us on what we were doing, asking how the campaign was going.' Other well-known guests at the reception included broadcaster Adele Roberts, campaigner Ashley Cain and actor Richard E Grant. Displays throughout the Palace showcased the work of projects such as Move Dance Feel, which supports women affected by cancer through movement, Rainbow Boxes, which provides practical items for those beginning treatment, and Wigs for Heroes, which offers wig fittings and styling services.
Belfast Telegraph
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Belfast Telegraph
King and Queen host reception for cancer support charities at Buckingham Palace
Charles and Camilla were joined by the Duchess of Gloucester for the event, which brought together campaigners, charity workers and individuals living with cancer, including some who have turned their personal experiences into powerful advocacy. Among the guests were Dame Deborah James's parents, Heather and Alistair James, who said the reception marked the pinnacle of their daughter's achievements since launching her Bowelbabe campaign before her death in 2022. Earlier, the King paid tribute to Dame Deborah, quoting her parting words: 'Find a life worth enjoying; take risks; love deeply; have no regrets; and always, always have rebellious hope.' He described her as 'an inspiration to us all, in sickness and in health', and said he was 'delighted' to welcome her parents to the reception. Alistair said: 'I think this ranks at the top,' referencing the recognition given to his daughter. He was also proudly wearing socks bearing the slogan Rebellious Hope – the phrase coined by Deborah in her final message to the public. 'For him, the King, to step up and talk about it, if he can, anyone can,' he added, referencing the monarch's recent openness about his own cancer diagnosis. Heather said: 'It was lovely being introduced to the King and I thanked him for being open with his diagnosis. 'I told him how much of a difference that would make to the public. 'I understand, like Kate's mother, how it feels when your daughter is going through cancer. 'They can definitely relate and understand those behind-the-scenes emotions.' She added: 'Deborah would have loved to have been here. For the King to mention her was amazing – we were very honoured. 'She was a force of nature.' The King and Queen met representatives from charities including Macmillan Cancer Support, Breast Cancer Now, Maggie's, Children's Hospice South West, and others working at a community level to offer both emotional and practical support to people affected by cancer. We need your consent to load this Social Media content. We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. The event was also attended by Sarah, Duchess of York, who recently spoke publicly about her own treatment for skin and breast cancer. Speaking at the palace, she praised the King's leadership and authenticity. 'There should be no egos in the charity world,' she said. 'I think the King is a brilliant example of revolutionising patronage – he does that in everything he does. 'He really listens, he wants to fix it, he wants to make a difference.' Reflecting on her own journey, the duchess added: 'I tell people to be proud of your scar. 'A teenager who died of cancer once told me, 'Always keep your sense of humour' – so I call my breasts Derek and Eric. 'For my daughter's 18th birthday, I took her to see a teenage cancer unit. It was very moving. I said, 'You need to see this.'' Guests at the reception also enjoyed a performance by the Change + Check Choir – a group of women who were diagnosed with breast cancer after spotting symptoms highlighted in a campaign on ITV's Lorraine. TV presenter Lorraine Kelly, who performed as part of the choir, said: 'Cancer affects all of us – and we've done things we never thought we would do.' Helen Addis, the campaign's founder and a producer on Lorraine, described the evening as 'absolutely unbelievable'. 'The one thing that's brought us all together is breast cancer,' she said. 'To do something so positive on a platform like this – it doesn't get much bigger than this. 'The King was commending us on what we were doing, asking how the campaign was going.' Other well-known guests at the reception included broadcaster Adele Roberts, campaigner Ashley Cain and actor Richard E Grant. Displays throughout the Palace showcased the work of projects such as Move Dance Feel, which supports women affected by cancer through movement, Rainbow Boxes, which provides practical items for those beginning treatment, and Wigs for Heroes, which offers wig fittings and styling services.
The Independent
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The Independent
King and Queen host reception for cancer support charities at Buckingham Palace
The King and Queen paid tribute to grassroots cancer charities during a reception at Buckingham Palace on Wednesday. Charles and Camilla were joined by the Duchess of Gloucester for the event, which brought together campaigners, charity workers and individuals living with cancer, including some who have turned their personal experiences into powerful advocacy. Among the guests were Dame Deborah James's parents, Heather and Alistair James, who said the reception marked the pinnacle of their daughter's achievements since launching her Bowelbabe campaign before her death in 2022. Earlier, the King paid tribute to Dame Deborah, quoting her parting words: 'Find a life worth enjoying; take risks; love deeply; have no regrets; and always, always have rebellious hope.' He described her as 'an inspiration to us all, in sickness and in health', and said he was 'delighted' to welcome her parents to the reception. Alistair said: 'I think this ranks at the top,' referencing the recognition given to his daughter. He was also proudly wearing socks bearing the slogan Rebellious Hope – the phrase coined by Deborah in her final message to the public. 'For him, the King, to step up and talk about it, if he can, anyone can,' he added, referencing the monarch's recent openness about his own cancer diagnosis. Heather said: 'It was lovely being introduced to the King and I thanked him for being open with his diagnosis. 'I told him how much of a difference that would make to the public. 'I understand, like Kate's mother, how it feels when your daughter is going through cancer. 'They can definitely relate and understand those behind-the-scenes emotions.' She added: 'Deborah would have loved to have been here. For the King to mention her was amazing – we were very honoured. 'She was a force of nature.' The King and Queen met representatives from charities including Macmillan Cancer Support, Breast Cancer Now, Maggie's, Children's Hospice South West, and others working at a community level to offer both emotional and practical support to people affected by cancer. The event was also attended by Sarah, Duchess of York, who recently spoke publicly about her own treatment for skin and breast cancer. Speaking at the palace, she praised the King's leadership and authenticity. 'There should be no egos in the charity world,' she said. 'I think the King is a brilliant example of revolutionising patronage – he does that in everything he does. 'He really listens, he wants to fix it, he wants to make a difference.' Reflecting on her own journey, the duchess added: 'I tell people to be proud of your scar. 'A teenager who died of cancer once told me, 'Always keep your sense of humour' – so I call my breasts Derek and Eric. 'For my daughter's 18th birthday, I took her to see a teenage cancer unit. It was very moving. I said, 'You need to see this.'' Guests at the reception also enjoyed a performance by the Change + Check Choir – a group of women who were diagnosed with breast cancer after spotting symptoms highlighted in a campaign on ITV's Lorraine. TV presenter Lorraine Kelly, who performed as part of the choir, said: 'Cancer affects all of us – and we've done things we never thought we would do.' Helen Addis, the campaign's founder and a producer on Lorraine, described the evening as 'absolutely unbelievable'. 'The one thing that's brought us all together is breast cancer,' she said. 'To do something so positive on a platform like this – it doesn't get much bigger than this. 'The King was commending us on what we were doing, asking how the campaign was going.' Other well-known guests at the reception included broadcaster Adele Roberts, campaigner Ashley Cain and actor Richard E Grant. Displays throughout the Palace showcased the work of projects such as Move Dance Feel, which supports women affected by cancer through movement, Rainbow Boxes, which provides practical items for those beginning treatment, and Wigs for Heroes, which offers wig fittings and styling services.
