Houghy, I'm making a donation to you. Good Luck with the fund raiser, and I should raise the bar if I were you, as you are already over the target.
Whilst we are on about Cancer, may I add my bit?
I had prostate cancer in 2003. It was diagnosed early, but only because I insisted on seeing a specialist. During my annual check-up, the Dr said that he could feel a very slight swelling, and that we should keep a watch on it, as my PSA levels were marginally over the age based limit. As my Father had had prostate cancer, and it's very strongly hereditary, I asked for a referral to a specialist. Even the urologist thought that it was nothing to worry about, but decided to do a biopsy. This confirmed an agressive cancer, and I had the op a few months later.
That was over 4 years ago, I only have one more annual check up after this year, and then I should be considered OK. Like most illnesses, if you catch it early enough, it's generally curable, let it get a hold and it becomes a major problem.
May I recommend that all men over the age of 50 have their PSA checked annually, and see a specialist if it's high. PSA is checked through a blood test, no fingers involved at that stage
. I believe that my insistance probably saved my life. If anyone wants to PM me about it, I'ld be happy to answer any questions in full confidence. However, let me make it quite clear, I'm
NOT a medico, but I
AM a survivor.