Payback time (From Dorset Echo)

Cancer survivor’s gruelling bid to help others

11:50am Saturday 21st March 2009 in Search By Harry Hogger

A CANCER survivor who endured six major operations is putting his body through more punishment to help other patients in Dorset.

Austin Latham, 65, from Weymouth, is taking on a triathlon with a difference, covering over 1,000 miles in the coming months on foot, bicycle and canoe to raise money for the oncology unit at Poole Hospital.

Mr Latham was diagnosed with bowel cancer three years ago and just weeks later doctors discovered a carcinoma that required major surgery of his face.

He then needed further operations over the next two years as the disease spread to his lymph and lungs.

Mr Latham said: “I have now gone a year since the last operation, I have had one scan that has given me the all clear and I am waiting on a second scan.”

He is now determined to make the most of his return to health and pay back those who treated his condition.

Mr Latham is starting with a 110-mile walk across Dartmoor and Exmoor on April 4, followed by a 900-mile bike ride from John O’Groats to Land’s End in June and a canoe trip from Poole to Weymouth in August. As he takes on the challenges Mr Latham will be looking to raise funds for the cancer unit at Poole Hospital where he was treated and which treats cancer patients from across the county.

Mr Latham, a former physical education instructor at Portland YOI, said: “I am now in a position where I feel well enough to try and help the medical team that have helped me and so many other people with their dedication and expertise.

“I would like to raise money in the only way I am able, through physical exercise.”

Mr Latham admitted there had been times in the last couple of years when he never imagined he would regain his health to the extent that he would be able take on such physical challenges.

He said: “The worst part of all was the chemotherapy, it really drags you down and makes you really appreciate what you cannot do.

“I couldn’t even walk to the end of my road when I first came back from my first session.”

Mr Latham will be supported in his efforts by former colleague Paul Kennedy, while old friend Ron Meatcher will be joining them for the cycle ride.

Mr Kennedy said he was delighted to be accompanying his friend and said Mr Latham’s recovery offered hope to all those diagnosed with cancer.

He said: “It’s nice we are going to have the chance to give something back for the treatment Austin received at Poole Hospital.

“You hear such horrendous things about the disease and for him to be able to do all these things shows other people that it’s not the end of the world.”

Mr Latham says he will also gladly welcome anyone who wants to join in his triathlon at any stage and he would like to hear from anyone who may be able to help with things like transport up to John O’Groats.

Anyone wishing to offer support or sponsor Mr Latham, or those interested in getting involved, can contact him on 01305 776668 or email latham741@btinternet.com.