The family of Ayr dad-of-three John Robertson has raised £4,679.77 towards private cancer treatment after he was diagnosed with terminal stage four oesophageal adenocarcinoma. The 35-year-old was offered palliative care after doctors found that the cancer had spread to multiple parts of his body, including his liver.
John, a glazier by trade, was given nine months to live after an endoscopy revealed a bleed and a mass tumour covering 75 per cent of his oesophagus. His family says he is determined to continue exploring every treatment option available.
Fundraiser brings in nearly £5,000
Last month, relatives organised a fundraiser at the Carrick Centre in Maybole. The event took place shortly after John left hospital and raised £4,679.77 towards private treatment and potential clinical trials.
“John only got out of hospital 20 minutes before it started and we are still in awe at people's support and kindness. This brings John closer to reaching his goal for private treatment.”
That was the message from John's wife Nicole, who also thanked everyone who attended or supported the event in other ways.
John is currently undergoing six cycles of aggressive chemotherapy. A scan carried out this week marked the halfway point in the treatment, which will help determine whether the cancer has responded.
Family seeks transfer to London
Nicole said the family is asking NHS Ayrshire and Arran to transfer John's care to London, where doctors can offer the surgery he needs. The family is also searching for a surgeon in Scotland who will agree with the professor in London so that the transfer can go ahead.
“We are currently fighting for NHS Ayrshire and Arran to transfer his care to London after six cycles of chemotherapy as they can offer the surgery John needs.”
John has also been offered a treatment plan in Germany, but the proposed treatment would cost more than €91,000. His family wants to keep that option open while continuing to raise funds.
Businesses organise further fundraising
Two Ayrshire businesses, MKM Kilmarnock and Mauchline-based Unlimited Landscapes, have joined forces to raffle a pergola and patio. There are 100 entries available, with tickets costing £50 each. All money raised will support John's search for alternative private treatment.
Further fundraising is planned. Pearled to Perfection in Airdrie is holding a teeth-whitening weekend from Friday, October 16 to Sunday, October 18, with appointment proceeds donated to John's GoFundMe page.
John's sister Nicky is also organising a race night at The Function Rooms in Hamilton on October 23. Tickets cost £10 and include prizes, an auction, raffle, buffet and DJ. Tickets can be bought by messaging Nicky on 07583477049.
“We aren't giving up on John. He deserves to live and we are fighting to give him that chance.”