It’s tee time as golfers take on non-stop charity challenge
The family of a man with terminal cancer made the most of the longest day of the year - using it to play a mammoth round of golf to raise money for the charity which has helped them.
Antony Shepphard, from Bathurst Road, Staplehurst, was given the devastating diagnosis in January.
He had shown no signs of the disease until just before Christmas when he thought he might have a bladder infection. A blood test quickly showed Mr Shepphard, 61, had a very advanced stage of prostate cancer, which has since spread to his hips and pelvis. He was given just 18 months to live. Since then the family have received vital advice and practical help from Macmillan Cancer Support, and now they want to show their gratitude, while also helping to fund research.
Mr Sheppard’s son Gareth 23, organised the charity match at The Ridge Golf Club in Chartway Street, Maidstone, on June 21 - the longest day of the year.
He was joined by his brother Christopher, 35, uncle Andrew Shepphard and family friend Mark Chippendale for a whopping four rounds of golf, taking in 72 holes. Antony’s wife, Karen Shepphard, said: “The Ridge was fantastically supportive, letting the boys play for free and allowing us to hold a raffle there too.”
Money is still coming in, but already the appeal has raised more than £7,000, thanks in large part to a single donation of £ 2,000 from the Gallagher Group, Mr Shepphard’s employers.
Mrs Shepphard said: “The real message we want to get out there is that all men over 40 should have the simple blood test that will tell them if they have prostate cancer and could save their lives.” Mr Shepphard is still working for Gallaghers, driving a 20-ton digger. Mrs Shepphard said: “He said he wants to work as long as possible, and not just sit around waiting for the end.”
To add to the total raised, go to www. tinyurl. com/ KMshepphard