"I have no doubt that without their help, I wouldn’t be here today."
In August 2013, Michael collapsed at home after suddenly losing feeling in his legs and being unable to stand.
He was rushed to hospital, where an MRI scan revealed a cancerous tumour on his spine. The tumour was urgently removed, but doctors advised him that he was unlikely to walk again.
Michael recalls his story, and the support he ultimately received from St Bartholomew’s Hospital:
“Several days after my operation, it was confirmed that I had multiple myeloma - an incurable blood cancer.
“Although there is no cure, it can be managed for several years. On hearing this, I realised I still had some good years ahead, but the prognosis remained that I would never walk again. From that moment, I began the long process of learning to stand and move independently once more.
“After surgery, my partner Niki fought tirelessly for me to transfer to the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital in Middlesex, which is a specialist spinal recovery centre. Every day, I spent hours in the gym with my physiotherapist, who worked very hard to help me get upright again. Progress was slow, but with the incredible support of the hospital team, my family, and friends, I moved from a wheelchair to a frame, then to crutches, and finally to walking sticks.
“I received stem cell treatment twice at St Bartholomew’s - in 2014 and 2017 - and responded very positively both times. I continue to receive care there as an outpatient, and I’ve now been attending the hospital for over ten years. My experiences have been nothing short of outstanding. The advice and treatment I receive are first-class - from the senior consultant to every nurse on the 7th floor haematology ward. They are professional, knowledgeable, compassionate, and have endless patience.
“I have no doubt that without their help, I wouldn’t be here today. I’m still able to play golf (badly), go to the gym, garden, and hold a West Ham season ticket (through the good and bad!). Most importantly, I continue to enjoy a very good family life.
“Since my diagnosis, I’ve cycled from London to Paris three times, proudly raising several thousand pounds for Myeloma UK which is a charity dedicated to finding a cure for this blood cancer.
“The myeloma has a habit of rearing it’s head from time to time, including a tumour on my chest, bone erosion, and further treatment such as radiotherapy. It’s still there, and it always will be, but I’ve learned to live with that. I’ve been given the chance to make the most of the time I have, and I want to help give that same opportunity to others.”
Michael has taken on many great challenges since his diagnosis, and he is currently embarking on his biggest adventure yet - a self-funded trip (he has covered his own flights, accommodation and other necessities) to China to trek the Great Wall and raise vital funds for Myeloma UK.
Speaking of his amazing feat, Michael adds:
“Every penny donated goes directly to the Myeloma charity. Research is so important, and it’s what has kept me going for 13 years. And more to come!”
Earlier this year, St Bartholomew’s Hospital was named a national centre of excellence for treating myeloma.