A DIAGNOSIS of cancer motivated a Petersfield man to undertake a challenging 25 kilometre walk in the Peak District.
In 2012 Phil Coverdale was diagnosed with a form of gastric cancer, and after undergoing an operation, chemotherapy and a kidney removal, he is taking part in Trekfest-The Peaks 2016.
He hopes to raise £2,500 to help increase awareness of oesophageal cancer and the importance of an early diagnosis.
He said: “Before my shock diagnosis I didn’t know such a cancer existed, or that there were definite symptoms to watch out for, and my experience has shown this is a widespread problem. What I would like to concentrate on is raising awareness of oesophageal cancer and what the symptoms are.”
A common symptom is persistent heartburn advises the Oesophageal Patients Association.
For more information, and to sponsor walkers, visit the website www.opa.org.uk or contact 0121 7049860.