Sheffield grandfather steps into the spotlight at charity fashion show
A Sheffield grandfather stepped into the spotlight at a charity fashion show - telling his cancer story to help others.
Yorkshire Cancer Research has held its first supporter fashion show at the charity's new superstore in York, shining a spotlight on the experiences of people affected by cancer and their families in Yorkshire.
Among them was Neil Garner, a member of the dedicated volunteer team at the Yorkshire Cancer Research shop in Crystal Peaks.
The 73-year-old grandfather enjoys giving his time to sort donations, warmly greet customers and create eye-catching displays because he directly benefitted from a pioneering service that the charity funds.
After he was diagnosed with bowel cancer in May 2022, Neil joined Active Together, the research-backed cancer exercise service funded by Yorkshire Cancer Research to help him prepare for and recover from cancer treatment.
Neil said: "I felt upset when I was told I had cancer, but it was my two grandchildren, Henry and Jacob, who motivated me to do all I could to give myself the best possible chance. I wanted to be there to see them grow up.”
Through personalised exercise support delivered by cancer specialists, Active Together helped Neil lose two stone and significantly improve his fitness, enabling him to successfully receive surgery to remove his cancer. Now, four years later, Neil is enjoying a cancer-free retirement with his wife, children and grandsons.
Neil said: “Active Together helped me when I needed it most. The visits with the fitness team became the highlight of my week. The tailored programme helped to build up my strength and the mental boost was also invaluable. I think everyone deserves the opportunity to benefit from this kind of life-changing treatment.”
In the run-up to Christmas, Neil understands more than ever what a vital role the charity’s shops play in funding vital cancer research and services in Yorkshire.
Neil said: "My first Christmas after being diagnosed with cancer, I was halfway through chemotherapy treatment, so my grandsons couldn’t jump up and down on me like usual. This year, thanks to Active Together, I’m looking forward to a healthy and happy family Christmas.”
“Volunteering at the charity’s Sheffield shop gives me the opportunity to speak with people who come in to buy and donate their pre-loved items. Their generosity helps to bring life-saving services like Active Together to more people with cancer across the region. Taking part in the Yorkshire Cancer Research fashion show, I hope, will show how we can collectively work together to help more people live longer, healthier lives, free from cancer.”
The Yorkshire Cancer Research fashion show was hosted by former ITV presenter Christine Talbot, who was diagnosed and treated for a fast-growing type of breast cancer.
Shop with Yorkshire Cancer Research this Christmas and help keep families together: www.yorkshirecancerresearch.org.uk
