A RETIRED Frome GP counts himself ‘extraordinarily lucky’ to be alive after being diagnosed with a cancer very few people survive.
Six years ago Dr David Blacklidge, now aged 79, was given possibly only 18 months to live after doctors found he had oesophageal cancer and it was at an advanced stage.
Only 15% of people diagnosed with the cancer survive the disease for five years or more. But in 2016 he is cancer free and enjoying life to the full.
And he is celebrating being a survivor by backing Stand Up To Cancer, a joint fundraising campaign from Cancer Research UK and Channel 4 which aims to raise money to fund vital research which will get new and better treatments to cancer patients faster.
The former GP, who practised in Frome for 30 years said, “I know I am very lucky but my experience shows there is hope, even when given a statistically gloomy prognosis.
“It was initially a very frightening experience, especially as having professional knowledge of the disease meant there was nowhere to hide. Hope, denial and graveyard humour are wonderful weapons. You have to think it is possible you will be alright”.
When David was diagnosed in 2010, the cancer was advanced and inoperable.
“If it is caught early surgery can be very successful,” he says. “But because the cancer had spread mine was inoperable.”
But six cycles of gruelling chemotherapy produced remarkable results.
“The treatment I had was not cutting edge but it was very intensive. Not everyone can tolerate it. A friend had to abandon the same treatment after the first cycle.
“I was so lucky to be able to tolerate it.
“I still take some medication for the side effects but nothing for the cancer as there isn’t any! I have an annual check-up which is now just a jolly chat with my consultant.”
Dr Blacklidge praised the expertise of the oncology team at the Royal United Hospital in Bath where he was treated and the invaluable support of his wife and family which helped him to face the problem and tackle it.
He continued, “Early diagnosis is so important. If someone has difficulty swallowing, get it seen to. If the symptoms persist go back and get more checks done.
“It has been an emotional journey but I am still here and well. Not many of us survive this long. I have had six years of life I didn’t think I was going to have.
“If sharing my story helps other people that is good. With friends dying around me, I think how extraordinarily lucky I am, though I sometimes suffer from survivor’s guilt.
“But I am getting on with life and spending money like water on things I might not have done otherwise. There are no pockets in a shroud!”
David is now supporting a fundraising campaign for a new cancer care centre at the RUH, and getting involved with Cancer Research fundraising.
Stand Up to Cancer will take place this year on Friday 21st October. Find out more at www.standuptocancer.org.uk
