Appeal to Check & CaRE
Bristol
University Hospital Bristol NHS Foundation Trust Governor Inspired by Cancer Scare
One person who will be hoping to inspire others to donate their time, effort and money towards the Above & Beyond CaRE appeal will be former cancer patient, Jason Edgar.
On 14th April 2008, 32 year old, Jason’s left testicle was removed. The operation was part of his treatment for testicular cancer; two words that strike fear into the majority of male hearts. A few weeks earlier he had been given the diagnosis that would change his life.
‘’All I could think was how to tell my parents, my seven year-old daughter, my friends and close colleagues. What would people think about me? Would I be viewed differently? Cancer was something that happened to other people. The importance of having some time alone, to think and come to terms with the news was important and it’s great that the refurbishment at the BHOC will create rooms where patients can take a moment, or can talk to a member of the support team about their diagnosis and treatment.’’
Jason remembers his first visit to the BHOC, with his mum by his side, feeling anxious, nervous and scared. Like many patients who visit the centre for the first time, Jason was struck by the building’s dull interior compared to the positive attitude of the staff that inhabited it.
“But despite the shortcomings of the building all of the clinical (and non-clinical) staff, were so kind and caring and so focused on me and my care. I received 100 percent commitment from everyone. Transforming the BHOC with colour, design and a new layout will help staff to do their job to the best of their ability and will lift the spirits of their patients as they concentrate on survival, living with cancer and most importantly, living through cancer.”
Eighteen months later and now fully recovered, Jason is keen to do something for the staff and patients at BHOC. Inspired by his experience he has recently become a Public Governor of University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust and an ambassador for the Above & Beyond CaRE Appeal.
“As a Governor, I am so pleased to see so much great work happening throughout the Trust and I believe that the CaRE Appeal is one that will truly make a difference to all that use the BHOC and will serve us well into the future. I urge everyone to support the appeal and their local hospitals in any way that they can.”
Jason is also keen to spread the word about self-examination.
“Gents, checking your testicles should form an important part of your life and if you think you have a lump, then go and have it checked out! “
