Based on information from Epsom and St Helier Hospital Trust
A local man who was treated for leukaemia at St Helier Hospital will be climbing the three highest mountains in the UK in under 24 hours next month (10 June), to raise funds for the department which cared for him.
Jon Horsford, from Raynes Park was diagnosed with chronic myloid leukaemia in 2005 after going to his doctor for a routine examination.
Now, more than six years later, Jon is in good health and taking on the Three Peak Challenge, which means climbing Snowdon, Ben Nevis and Scarfell Pike all within a day.
Jon, who will be donating the funds he raises to the haematology team (where blood disorders are treated) at St Helier Hospital, explained his reasons for taking on the challenge.
He said: “I went into my GP’s surgery for a routine blood test and less than a week later when the results came back, I got the absolute shock of my life. I had leukaemia. I was devastated.
“I don’t really talk about it much because I don’t want people to worry about me. I’ve got five kids, and I especially didn’t want to panic them.
"But, I realised that this isn’t just about me any more – I’ve got to give something back to the doctors and nurses who treated me and perhaps help other people who find themselves in a similar situation.
“It hasn’t always been easy, but I can honestly say that I have never felt better than I do at the moment – I’m absolutely top dog!
"I return to the hospital every three months for a blood test, but there are only minimal levels of leukaemia in my blood now.
"I owe a lot to the people who treated me, as well as the medication that helps keep the disease in check. I am lucky to be alive.”
Dr Jane Mercieca, consultant in the haematology department, said: “We are incredibly pleased that Jon is taking on the challenge and honoured to hear that he’ll be doing it raise money for us.
“It’s a testament to his determination, and just goes to show that he is living life to the full. He’s a great example to us all.
“In the past 50 years we have made some amazing advances in the treatment of blood cancers, and for the particular type of leukaemia that Jon has, we have made a complete break though.
"It is wonderful that people – even with this very serious disease – can go on to lead full and healthy lives and even climb mountains if they want!”
To sponsor Jon, or to find out more about his progress, please visit www. uk.virginmoneygiving.com/jonhorsford.
For more information about the Trust, including how you can support our work, please visit www.epsom-sthelier.nhs.uk/supportus.
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