At 76 years old, most people might be thinking about taking it easy. Barry Jackson has other plans. He’s preparing to abseil down the side of a building to give back to the team that looked after him for the past 15 years.
It’s a powerful reminder of why our fundraising events matter so much, and why supporters like Barry are the beating heart of Clatterbridge Cancer Charity.
Barry’s cancer story began just as he and his fiancée were preparing for their honeymoon to Mauritius, a routine health check with his new doctor in Heswall changed everything. He was diagnosed with metastatic prostate cancer requiring urgent intervention.
“We postponed the honeymoon and visited Cornwall instead after the wedding” he recalls.
Since that diagnosis, the team at Clatterbridge Cancer Centre in Wirral has been by Barry’s side. For over 15 years, his treatment has been managed with dedication and expertise, helping him live a full life despite the diagnosis.
“Clatterbridge medical staff have kept a close eye on my treatment and health for over 15 years”.
But gratitude alone isn’t enough for Barry. He’s already a monthly giver to Clatterbridge Cancer Charity, but he wanted to do something more. Something that would push him to his limits and make a real statement about how much this charity means to him.
Enter the abseil.
“I wanted to do something which put me personally to the test” he explains. And what better way than to abseil – something he hasn’t done in 21 years!
Barry’s story doesn’t exist in isolation. Around him, cancer continues to touch lives. He’s lost a dear school friend to bowel cancer. His father-in-law passed away from stomach cancer just four months ago and one of his best friends from university has just started cancer therapy for renal and lung cancer.
“Sadly, most of us know a family member or friend affected by some form of this dreadful killer” Barry reflects.
It’s a sobering truth, but it’s also a call to action. Every person who takes part in an event like the abseil is doing it for someone they love – whether they’re going through treatment themselves, or honouring the memory of someone who did.
Barry’s enthusiasm for the upcoming abseil is infectious. “I can’t wait to join the brave folk doing the abseil on June 7th” he says.
Whether you’re inspired by Barry’s story or you have your own reasons for supporting Clatterbridge Cancer Charity, our upcoming events offer a chance to make a real difference.
The Clatterbridge Abseil on 7th June is just one of the incredible fundraising events that you can take part in. From running races to community events, there are many ways to get involved.
Want to see what’s coming up? Take a look at what’s coming up and find something that speaks to you!
