Dad who beat cancer facing bike challenge
ADAD will take part in a gruelling 100mile cycle ride just two years after being given a terminal cancer diagnosis and having a lung removed.
Dave Staley, 41, of Bramhall, was told in 2015 that he had mesothelioma because of previous exposure to asbestos and was given less than a year to live.
But he defied medical predictions to be given the all clear following major surgery and chemotherapy that finished in April last year.
And Dave, who works in IT for Barclays Bank, will tackle the Ride London challenge on Sunday, July 30 - a route of 100 miles from the capital out into the Surrey Hills and back again.
He said: “When I got the news it was heartbreaking, it was the day before my daughter’s birthday, three weeks before my 40th and it was a bombshell. But I didn’t focus on the stats as I am an individual.
“It does make you sit back and think about your priorities and makes you want to create memories and appreciate things more.
“A year ago I could hardly walk and 18 months ago I needed a frame in hospital. I now want to show others that no matter your state of health, with the correct training, support and belief, anything is possible.”
It is not known how Dave, of Ridge Park, came into contact with asbestos. Possibilities are a summer job as a meter reader, DIY and while he was at school.
Doctors caught the cancer early, which saw him beat the odds to recover.
After deciding to undertake the bike ride, during which he will raise money for the British Lung Foundation and Mesothelioma UK, Dave began cycling in January.
He now goes out four times a week and, although he takes it steady, he is covering up to 70 miles in one go.
Dave, who lives with wife Alison, 41, son Joshua 10 and daughter Erin, seven, said: “One-hundred miles might not seem much to most people but with one lung it’s a massive challenge and I will be gasping for air much quicker.
“I’m dreading the hills but I’m really looking forward to the atmosphere and people being out on the street as I cycle down the Mall at the end.”
During the ride Dave will be supported by best friend Stephen Colley and brother-in-law Simon Ingyon.
Anyone wishing to sponsor Dave can visit www.virginmoneygiving. com/DavidStaley.