I never thought I’d be writing something like this at 33 years old.

In July 2024, I was diagnosed with Stage 4 diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. By the time they found it, it had already spread to my bone marrow and other areas. Since then, life has been a blur of hospital appointments, chemo cycles, scans, setbacks and small wins.

I’ve had intensive chemotherapy, CAR-T cell therapy in Manchester, immunotherapy and more complications than I can even list. There were times I couldn’t walk. Times I couldn’t eat or speak. Times my family were told to prepare themselves for the worst.

On 9th February this year, I was told only that I have around 3 months left to live and treatment at the NHS was stopped.

It’s now 2nd March. And the truth is, I don’t feel ready to stop fighting.

Right now, I’m actually doing better than expected. I’m eating again. I’ve got some energy back. I’m up, moving around, spending time with the people I love. I’m still here.

So while I’m here, I’m doing everything I possibly can.

I’ve chosen to try private supportive therapies - specialist biomedical support, IV therapies, hyperbaric oxygen sessions and red light therapy. These aren’t funded and currently cost thousands per week, alongside other ongoing expenses.

I know not everyone will understand these choices. But when you’re told your time might be limited, you don’t leave any door unopened. If there’s something that might give me strength, time, or just help me feel more like myself, I want to try it.

This page isn’t about pity. It’s about hope, it’s about time, it’s about easing the pressure.

And more than anything, it’s about my family.

If the worst does happen, my biggest wish is that my wife and 4 children can stay in our home without the added weight of financial stress. I want them to feel secure. I want the house to be safe. I don’t want grief mixed with money worries.

If you know me personally, you know I’ve never been someone who asks for help easily. If you don’t know me, thank you for even taking the time to read this.

If you’re in a position to donate, I can’t put into words how grateful I am. If you can’t, sharing this means just as much.

This past year has shown me how fragile life is, how quickly everything can change. But it’s also shown me the power of people. The messages, the support, the love.

I don’t know exactly how much time I have left but …

I’m still here. I’m still fighting. And I’m grateful for every single day.

Thank you for being part of this with me.

Joe