A DAD from Warwick is literally putting his life in the community’s hands in the hope they can help him beat cancer.
Mark Littlejohn was recently diagnosed with terminal lung cancer after a brief illness which saw him suffer from a cough, breathlessness and fatigue.
He was told by doctors that there was no cure, but the 60 year-old father-of-two has refused to accept the diagnosis.
Mark, who until recently worked for a renewable energy company, said: “Some weeks ago I was feeling perfectly well, fit and healthy. Working full time, going to the gym once a week and enjoying flying lessons.
“But it turns out that the universe had other plans. Life was about to be unexpectedly turned on its head.
“Following one painful night I went to my doctor who referred me for tests, to find that there were some suspicious shadows in the lung area.
“The bad news was that I have been diagnosed with terminal lung cancer. A fairly brutal and bleak diagnosis but one I am determined to challenge.”
Mark has researched international cures, and has found a clinic in Germany offering promising, cutting-edge treatments. This is through immunotherapy – which uses medicines to encourage a patient’s immune system to destroy cancer cells.
But the treatment – which can cost up to £40,000 – is not available on the NHS and Mark has had to set up a fund-raising page to try and secure donations.
And locals are supporting his cause, giving nearly £5,500 in just over a week.
It has enabled him to book a trip for the first round of treatment, which he is currently receiving at the Hallwang Clinic in Stuttgart.
Mark said: “My priority is getting fit and strong, so that I can continue to endeavour to be a good father, partner and friend.
“My priority is to keep on going and defy expectation.
“After much research, I found there are incredible breakthroughs which are seeing previously ‘incurable’ cancers going into complete remission. The Hallwang Clinic is one of the leaders in this field. The downside is that these cutting edge treatments aren’t yet available on the NHS outside of clinical trials, and the treatments are extremely expensive.
“I have had a good, healthy life – I just don’t feel ready to go just yet.
“I sincerely hope with the help of those touched by my story, my family, friends and loved ones, the funds needed for a potentially life-saving treatment can be raised. Time is of the essence.”
Visit www.gofundme.com and search for Mark’s Cancer Fund to donate.
