Cancer survivor returns to help hospital that saved him

A FORMER cancer patient who was successfully treated at Sheffield’s Weston Park Hospital has returned 17 years later – to take up a job as legacy and trust officer for the hospital’s charity.

Andrew Russell, 54, was first diagnosed with testicular cancer in 1988 and after surgery thought his treatment was over. But five years on, he was told that the disease had recurred.

The father-of-two was finally given the all clear after undergoing six months of chemotherapy, and said that he was now pleased to return to the hospital to help raise cash for its work.

Mr Russell will develop charitable donations by working with people who are considering leaving money in their wills and will also work to secure funds from grant making trusts.

The former solicitor, from Lodge Moor, Sheffield, said: “It’s the perfect job, I know the benefits of Weston Park and the fantastic care that is offered here, as well as being able to use my professional skills.

“Obviously it was very shocking when I was re-diagnosed. You need to think positive and I had a young family at the time and I wanted to be there for them.

“I had excellent treatment and my consultant went the extra mile – she offered to introduce me to a patient who had been successfully treated for the same cancer.

“Seeing someone walk onto the ward, who was fit and well, gave me a lot of hope and encouragement that I too would be okay.”

Mr Russell said his work as a solicitor would help him when dealing with possible donations from wills and added that he is also available to talk informally and without obligation to anyone who is considering leaving a legacy about what is involved in the legal process.

The director of Weston Park Hospital Cancer Charity, Rachel Thorpe, said: “Last year Weston Park Hospital Cancer Charity received an incredible half a million pounds in legacies, by far the most we have ever received.

“With all of us tightening our belts right now this money made a huge difference, enabling us to fulfil all our obligations to the hospital over what might otherwise have been a very difficult 12 months.

“Everyone who leaves us a legacy is investing in the future of Weston Park and the fight against cancer, and we really are very grateful.”