Peak District Marathon Fundraise For URGENT Cancer Treatment

Hi, my name is Alex and I'm doing the Big Hike Peak District Marathon on Saturday 8th June 2024. I'm helping to fundraise money for my childhood friend Jon Ward (42), who requires URGENT treatment for Pancreatic Cancer.

Jon has been battling Pancreatic Cancer since June 2023. Recent news of new Cancer progression to his liver means that time is really running out for any chance of remission from this relentless, aggressive and highly lethal disease. Pancreatic Cancer (without the correct treatment) has the poorest survival rate of all cancers due to the speed at which it spreads.

Jon has endured 10 months of attempted treatment, starting with major surgery in August 2023 to remove the primary tumour on the head of the pancreas. This traumatic operation was then followed by 2 different chemotherapy regimens. Jon was subjected to the harsh reality that are the side-effects of Pancreatic Cancer treatment - immuno-suppression induced sepsis, feeding tubes, depression, blood clots, lifelong medication, scarring, 70+ supplements per day, opioid withdrawal and isolation (amongst much, much more).

Sadly, in April 2024 Jon’s chemotherapy treatment was suspended. His cancer has moved to his liver and is growing. The remaining treatment options do not hold promise (long wait-times, and no available clinical trials at present). The news has devastated Jon, his partner and his family, especially as the chemotherapy had been working to a point, only for the tumours to develop resistance in the last month.

Remission is still possible, with the right treatment, if it is given quickly while Jon is still healthy. Each day that goes by with Jon left untreated, decreases his chances of remission.

Private oncology clinics overseas are offering Jon precision-based immunotherapy using extensive genetic testing to treat his cancer. These approaches are not feasible options under the confines of the NHS (brilliant though it is). This targeted approach to Pancreatic Cancer treatment, using the body's own immune system is absolutely crucial for Jonathan's survival.

Any donation large or small would be much appreciated, to help give Jon the best possible chance of beating this!

Many thanks,

Alex