Facing Cancer: Two Men Share Their Journey of Change and Hope
Two men, both diagnosed with cancer, reveal how they transformed their lives to fight the disease and embrace a healthier future
Gorton, Stockport, Lung Cancer, Prostate Cancer, Immunotherapy, Health Promotion
Gorton: Ian Gresty, a retired school cleaner, once worked at The Christie cancer hospital. Sadly, he became a patient there after being diagnosed with lung cancer that had spread to his brain. Initially, doctors gave him just three months to live.
Another retiree, Ian Cameron, has had a varied career as a chef and electrician. In 2023, he received a diagnosis of aggressive stage three prostate cancer. Both men faced the unimaginable and realized they had to make significant changes to their lives to survive.
Ian Gresty thought he had a simple chest infection. He was working hard and just felt tired. But when antibiotics didn’t help, he got a chest X-ray, which led to a CT scan and a biopsy. That’s when he learned he had lung cancer. The news hit him hard.
His nurse at The Christie, Marie Eaton, suggested he talk to a health promotion advisor. It became clear that to improve his chances, he needed to change his lifestyle.
Ian had started smoking at 14, influenced by friends. He tried to quit once before but fell back into it. This time, motivated by his nine grandchildren, he decided to stop smoking and drinking alcohol. He met with Charlotte, a health advisor, who supported him through the process.
With Charlotte’s encouragement, Ian quit smoking for good. She provided him with tools to cope, like a stress ball to squeeze instead of reaching for a cigarette. He gradually cut down and eventually stopped completely.
He also gave up alcohol, finding it easier than he expected. He used to drink a couple of cans a day but realized it made him feel bloated. Now, he doesn’t miss it at all.
Ian Cameron’s journey was different but equally challenging. His cancer was discovered during a routine check-up when his doctor found an enlarged prostate. A blood test confirmed the diagnosis, and he began treatment shortly after.
He reflected on his symptoms, realizing he had experienced signs of prostate cancer for years but didn’t know it. After undergoing radiotherapy, he leaned on his wife Paula for support, who has been by his side for over 50 years.
Even though Ian Cameron quit smoking years ago, he also decided to give up alcohol during his treatment. He felt it was essential to take control of his health and make better choices.
Both men have found strength in their journeys. Ian Gresty continues to live with stage 4 cancer, attending check-ups every three months. He’s grateful for the care he’s received at The Christie.
Ian Cameron has seen positive results from his treatment, with low PSA levels. He’s committed to staying healthy and encourages other men to be proactive about their health.
Both Ian Gresty and Ian Cameron are living proof that even in the face of terrifying diagnoses, it’s possible to make changes that can lead to a healthier, more hopeful future.