Nightrider Steve’s 50km mission in dad’s memory
ARETIRED paramedic from Runcorn is undertaking the Nightrider cycle challenge in Liverpool in memory of his father who lost his battle with cancer, despite having cancer himself.
Steve Evans MBE, 62, will be taking on the 50km ride to raise cash for Macmillan Cancer Support and has now been picked as a champion to bang the drum for the importance of early diagnosis.
The former medic reduced the distance from 100k after discovering a non-healing tongue ulcer was cancer.
The keen cyclist had had the ulcer checked by his dentist during a routine trip, which meant he had a diagnosis in three weeks of it appearing.
Steve, originally from Toxteth, is now eager to turn a negative into a positive by raising charity cash and hammering home the message of why early diagnosis can not just save lives but reduce the general impact.
With good humour, he said that although the surgery he needs is usually a minor procedure, for him it is much more serious because of how much he talks.
He added that he is confident that he caught the cancer early enough for it not to have spread.
Steve was made an MBE in 2015 in recognition of his Don’t Walk Away campaign, which was inspired by his experience when he was called to treat a boy of about 12 years old in Widnes who had been left sprawled on his back by his friends after too much to drink.
The campaign which was launched in 2001 is now being run around the world and offers advice on what to do in the case of emergency and the dangers of under-age drinking and choking.
He said: “I signed up to do the Nightrider challenge for Macmillan as I lost my father to cancer 25 years ago and they really make a difference to the lives of those living with cancer.
“Since signing up, I ironically received my own diagnosis.
“My dad didn’t really get a chance to fight his diagnosis as he didn’t spot the warning signs and by the time he got his diagnosis, it was too late and he died aged just 62.
“However, this experience, teamed with my 44 years work as a paramedic is what led me to get my ulcer checked out so soon and I’d urge anyone with any worrying symptoms, whatever they may be to do the same.
“I really believe that you need to take charge of your own health and if you suspect something isn’t right, don’t leave it to chance, take action.”
Nicole McIlveen, fundraiser for Macmillan in Liverpool, Wirral and the Isle of Man, said: “It is wonderful that Steve has chosen to fundraise for us.
“As well as raising vital funds for us, it’s amazing that he wants to highlight the importance of early diagnosis.
“His story is an inspiring one and we wish him the best of luck in the Nightrider.”
Nightrider takes place on Saturday, July 15, and gives participants the chance to ride through Liverpool’s moonlit streets.
To sponsor Steve, text MBES60£5 to 70070 or visit justiving.com/steveevans-mbe. ●