Fastnet Race a breeze for after cancer battle
A MIDLAND man is to take part in one of the world’s most famous yacht races – despite undergoing six months of chemotherapy for bladder cancer.
Father-of-two Richard Parsons will take part in the gruelling, 608-nautical mile Rolex Fastnet Race this August.
And the Solihull project manager with Greene King brewers has already raised £4,500 for Cancer Research UK through sponsorship.
Mr Parsons, a keen sailor for 29 years and a member of the Balsall Common-based Heart of England Offshore Cruising Association, was diagnosed with cancer in February last year.
The 55-year-old was operated on at Spire Parkway Hospital, Solihull, by consultant surgeon Charles Hendrickse, who removed the tumour from his bowel, followed by a course of chemotherapy conducted by consultant oncologist Dr Shobhit Baijal.
Mr Parsons said: “When I was diagnosed in February last year it obviously came as a major shock.
“But I stayed positive and kept active, which I think really helped. I was determined that I would still be good to go for the 2017 Fastnet, which will start on August 6.
“I have just one more training race to take part in, then that’s it – let’s go!
“I did have some rough times but, to be honest, the treatment was nowhere near as bad as I had expected it to be. I also regularly attended sessions with the Macmillan Cancer Rehabilitation Scheme at Tudor Grange in Solihull, which really helped me to maintain my fitness.
“I can’t thank either Mr Hendrickse or Dr Baijal enough, not just for their expertise but also for the encouragement and advice they were always happy to give.”
Mr Parsons added: “It is impossible to say how well we will do but we have a good crew and a great boat so the rest is down to the elements and what is thrown at us.
“Whatever happens, it will be something I will remember for the rest of my life. It proves you’re never too old for adventures. Finishing the race and raising a load of cash for Cancer Research UK will be enough to keep me happy.”
Dr Baijal said: “Following his surgery, Richard embarked on a sixmonth course of chemotherapy to reduce the risk of his cancer recurring.
“The treatment is intense and carries potential side-effects but, with careful supervision, Richard ‘sailed’ through it remarkably well.”
To donate to Richard’s charity visit www.justgiving.com/richardparsonsfastnet