Derek's cancer journey...

Hello Jacq & Anna here...

Our beloved friend Derek has just days ago been diagnosed with terminal  Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HPV-OPSCCs) throat cancer which has spread to his lymph nodes in his neck & lungs.

In 2018 after being twice dismissed by his GP as a throat infection and sent home with antibiotics he took matters into his own hands. In the October of 2018 he went to A&E only to be greeted with 'go back to your GP'. He however he explained that he had indeed already been down that road before and knew that there was something more sinister going on. Before the day was out he had been diagnosed with Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma linked to HPV - cancer of the tonsils which had also spread to lymph nodes in his neck. 

The long road to treatment began soon after. The NHS does not provide treatment in York so Derek has to travel to St James’ Hospital in Leeds. 

Derek unfortunately does not have private health, a pension or family to assist him financially and emotionally so, we are doing our bit as best we can even though we are both far away. (Jacqueline is in Australia & Anna is in London) 

This insidious disease has now spread to his lungs which has made it incurable.  He is about to start palliative chemotherapy which the Doctors say this will prolong his life and make him more comfortable. It is a gruelling cycle of three weekly chemo sessions which includes one day of chemo in hospital at St James hospital in Leeds then a further four days at home with a pump. This cycle will last for 18 weeks. If the tumours stay the same size or shrink, then he will be a fantastic candidate for immunotherapy (updates via the blog).

As this progresses it will affect his mobility and breathing. He was luckily enough to receive a car from the government to assist him with his mobility. It is a life changing thing for him and Milo! - see the cute pics!

His friends are his family, however as we are not geographically close and we thought this is a way we can help! Naturally we want to help him in any way we can by assisting him being comfortable and not worry about monetary issues. His dream is to make it back to Australia one last time. Currently we do not know if it is medically possible for him to travel – but of course I would love to see him again before he dies (a harsh reality) and for him to have some fun at his old stomping ground, so if there is enough money raised and he gets medical clearance look out Australia!!!

This is a true testimony to his character and strength as he faces the realities of his cancer journey. There is no dollar amount that can be associated with the cost of what is paid, when it comes to the diagnosis of this insidious disease. It is a diagnosis that is financially draining, especially when you’re unable to work due to being ill.

The most important ‘person’ in Derek’s life is his puppy Milo. He has been a wonderful companion for Derek and we want to make sure he is financially looked after when Derek is gone (such as assist with payment of dog walkers). Derek has found him a loving home but wants to continue to provide for his best mate!


Our Wishes for Derek

1. Continue palliative chemotherapy and other treatments to make him comfortable

2. Transport related expenses to get to treatment, the doctor and to pick up anything related.

3. Funeral expenses 

4. Ensure his best friend Milo is cared for 

5. Any monies left over will go to his bucket list

6. For him to have some fun while he is still here with us!