Memorial raises cancer awareness
THE names of 500 men who lost their lives to prostate cancer take pride of place on a moving memorial unveiled in Newcastle.
Men’s health charity Prostate Cancer UK unveiled its remembrance structure, ‘The Prostate Cancer Memorial’, in its new home at Eldon Square. The 10ft structure is currently touring the UK and will remain in Newcastle until September 14.
It’s a particularly poignant home for the memorial, having been inspired by a local love story which was cut short by prostate cancer.
Michelle and Doug Blythe, who grew up in Jarrow and South Shields respectively, were married for 42 years before Doug passed away in 2017.
And last week, Michelle, who now lives in London, travelled back to Newcastle to see the mirrored structure unveiled in its new home.
Michelle said: “My husband was a Geordie... I’m delighted that [the memorial] is here on his home ground here in Newcastle upon Tyne. I’ve travelled here to see it and also so his relatives and friends can see it too.”
Doug’s family have honoured his memory in many ways since his passing. His daughter Gemma completed Prostate Cancer UK’S March for Men, and son Bill set up a fundraising page which raised over £3,000.
However, in the search for a more permanent tribute to husband, father and grandfather Doug,the Prostate Cancer Memorial was born.
By touring the memorial across the UK, Prostate Cancer UK aim to raise much-needed awareness about prostate cancer, whilst providing an opportunity for people to see their loved one’s name engraved on the memorial.