I started climbing about 6 months before my dads stage 4 lung cancer diagnosis. Climbing gave me a chance to spend time with my best buddy and chat about everything whilst working out some stress on the wall. My dad went on for 10 months after his diagnosis, watched my sister get married, then watched me get married 2 months later, and was still living his normal life for around 8 of those months, even continuing to work every day. About 2 weeks before my dad passed away I had all but given up work to become his principal carer for nearly 4 weeks as he had very quickly gone down hill, and everyday was losing the ability to care for him self more and more. My climbing partner and best friend insisted that I needed a day away sport climbing, so we went to Portland. Well, we both had the worst days climbing we have ever had, but I needed it. I needed to get away and be outside for the day, clearing my head on the rock. Since losing my dad, climbing has given me something to work at, something to look forward to, and something to focus on. When I came across CAC I knew I had to support this charity. I bought a few Christmas presents (for others and for myself) this year from CAC and will continue to support them in any way I can. Climb on.
Most people have been affected by cancer in one way or another. Whether it’s through a family or friend, or even a personal battle. Share your story here and let others know they’re not alone in the climb against cancer.
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