Graham Haigh

"On two consecutive days in one week, two years ago, my life changed forever.

After being told that tests showed I had prostate cancer, I was called into my doctor the following day and told I had breast cancer – I simply could not believe it.

Over the months that followed I was treated for both cancers by the skilled staff at the two Leeds teaching hospitals which left me ready to get on with my life. I got used to hearing the phrase “you were very unlucky”, but needed to concentrate on how best to come to terms with a changed life.

I was told that the fact that I was in good physical shape at the beginning of this journey would help me significantly during both treatment and recuperation and this proved to be the case. I was determined to remain positive, as I had been warned that the worst thing that can happen is to 'give up' and be negative. I also learned that when the going is tough it is always good to be able to turn to reliable support from family and friends – that this was available I deeply value.

At one of my checkups following radiography for the breast cancer, it was suggested that I might like to consider visiting The Haven in Leeds. This proved a very interesting experience, as I had no real idea what services they provided. I found a location staffed by kind and caring people whose sole purpose seemed to be, to provide a range of services which catered for people who were perhaps struggling to get their lives back in order.

The environment and positive atmosphere were very welcoming, and I was able to sample a whole range of treatments and presentations which allowed me to learn and concentrate on moving forward. The fact that I was the only male Visitor didn't concern me too much [although I can understand that some people might have found it a little daunting].

I nicknamed myself 'the Lone Ranger', and have found my time spent on visits to The Haven, meeting the staff and the specialists who provide the services offered, have helped me develop a balanced outlook. It was good to see the efforts of the people at The Haven having such a positive effect on each of theVisitors.

Having had ongoing positive feedback from my check ups, I am now able to lead a relatively normal life again, the only real negative being the excessive tiredness peaks which I can experience as a result of the Tamoxifen medication. I do like to still visit The Leeds Haven, both to see the friends I have made on the staff, or to attend a specialist presentation."

Graham Haigh