Taken from the Guardian (
You'd never have guessed to look at or listen to him, either reporting from the touchline of Super League matches, or presenting the Full Time highlights show on Sunday nights. But as a long-time Guardian reader, he's keen for us to mention it in this week's Six – not in a look-at-me way (that's never been his style), but in the hope that it'll persuade the rest of us middle-aged blokes to consider our health in Prostate Cancer Awareness Month.
Bill is 56, and it was only when he was in the process of moving house in late 2011, and he was required to take a routine medical, that he became aware of a potential problem. After urine and blood tests, he saw a consultant, and "can remember quite clearly seeing the words prostate cancer written across the corner of a document" that was lying upside down on the desk.
"I don't think either of us actually mentioned the words prostate cancer," Bill adds. "I suppose I didn't want to hear that. I didn't want to hear that said out loud. I didn't want to ask about it."
After a couple of further tests, biopsies and MRI scans, he was eventually diagnosed over the phone (which he had requested for a more speedy diagnosis) in January 2012. The oncology nurse talked him through the options for Bill to consider. "I remember I was leaning against the sideboard at home. The nurse was really just confirming what I already knew, but it didn't make it any easier to hear and I'm not sure I took in all she was saying."
Bill was referred to an oncologist, who gave him a full run-down of all his treatment options. "I didn't realise there were so many different paths to take, unlike some other cancers which seem to have one obvious treatment route. Honestly, I was a bit bewildered by the options and it didn't make me feel very optimistic. At a time when I was down, I was expected to make crucial choices. It was all a bit daunting."
He eventually opted to have hormone therapy in combination with radiotherapy, which he started in March 2012. His treatment finished in July and since then regular tests have shown that the prostate cancer is being managed. "Every time a test and check-up approaches, I get apprehensive," Bill concludes. "I always hope for the best, but will never be complacent about my health ever again."
Something for us all to think about there. Prostate Cancer UK's confidential Helpline is 0800 074 8383 which is staffed by specialist nurses and open from 10am to 4pm Monday to Friday and Wednesdays from 7-9pm or visit
I am sure everyone will join me in wishing Bill a full and speedy recovery.
