My Story — and Why I’m Taking on the Challenge

In 2021, my life changed forever when I was diagnosed with rectal cancer.

What followed was an incredibly difficult journey. I underwent 12 rounds of chemotherapy, followed by 25 sessions of chemoradiotherapy. After that came a 10-hour operation to remove the tumour, a large section of my bowel, as well as my bladder and prostate.

The surgery saved my life, but it also changed it forever. I was left needing both a colostomy and a urostomy diversion, so I have had to adapt to a completely different way of living.

Today, I am incredibly fortunate to say that I have been cancer-free for four years.

I owe an enormous amount to the skill, dedication and care of the NHS staff who supported me throughout my treatment. Without them, I would not be here today. I will always be incredibly grateful.

But surviving cancer doesn’t mean that everything simply goes back to normal.

The physical and emotional impact of major cancer treatment can stay with you long after you are told that you are clear. Living with a urostomy brings its own challenges, and I know first-hand how valuable it can be to have somewhere to turn for advice, information and support.

That is why I have decided to raise money for the Urostomy Association — an organisation that provides support, advice and reassurance to people who have undergone urinary diversion, whatever the reason.

The Challenge

Starting at 6:00pm on Friday 30th October 2026, outside The Mill Venue, Walsden, OL14 6SA, I will begin a 30-Day Cold Plunge Challenge.

For 30 consecutive days, I will spend a minimum of five minutes every day immersed in freezing cold water.

It is going to be uncomfortable. It is going to be tough. And there will undoubtedly be days when I really don’t want to do it.

But after everything I’ve already been through, I know that a little discomfort is nothing compared with what so many people face during and after cancer treatment.

And if I can turn that discomfort into something positive and raise money to help others, then it will be more than worth it.

Come and Join Us for the Finale!

The final plunge will take place at 7:30pm on Saturday 28th November 2026, at The Mill Venue in Walsden OL14 6SA.

Afterwards, there will be a quiz night starting at 8:00pm, featuring some fantastic prizes.

So come along, have some fun, support an important cause — and you might even go home with a great prize!

Please Support My Challenge

The Urostomy Association relies heavily on donations and the dedication of volunteers to continue its work.

Your donation, no matter how large or small, will help the organisation continue providing information, advice and support to people facing life after urinary diversion — people like me.

Four years cancer-free is something I never take for granted.

Now I’d like to use that good fortune to give something back.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your support, your generosity and for helping me turn my experience into something positive for others.

Let’s get through 30 days of freezing water and raise as much as we possibly can!