Man takes on Leeds 10k for life-saving research following cancer diagnosis

Man takes on Leeds 10k for life-saving research following cancer diagnosis content

A man from Pontefract has raised over £500 to help bring cancer cures to Yorkshire after completing the Leeds 10K - in support of Yorkshire Cancer Research.

Four years after being diagnosed with testicular cancer, 31-year-old Brad Hughes took on the challenge to help Yorkshire Cancer Research fund more life-saving treatments and research for people across the region. The event was also a way for him to mark three years of being cancer-free.

Brad is stood to the side-lines of the finish line. He is biting his medal.

Yorkshire Cancer Research funds £64m of cancer research and innovative cancer services, finding ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer for people in Yorkshire, and beyond. Thanks to supporters, the charity has been funding research and saving lives since 1925.

Brad was diagnosed with testicular cancer in March 2021 after experiencing pain and swelling in his groin and legs. Initially told he had a urinary tract infection, he requested an ultrasound when his symptoms persisted.

Quote from Brad Hughes

I know my own body and I just knew it was something more serious. However, when the doctor said the word ‘cancer’, I fell into a total state of shock and was completely silent for the rest of the appointment. Thankfully, despite Covid-19 restrictions, my wife and mum were allowed to come into the room. The whole meeting is a blur, but I remember my wife being the backbone throughout.”

The following month, Brad underwent surgery at Pinderfields Hospital in Wakefield to remove his testicle. While the operation went smoothly, a CT scan three weeks later showed the cancer had spread to his lymph nodes. He began a nine-week course of chemotherapy, which required him to stay overnight at the Bexley Wing.

He said: “The surgery went well, so I thought that was it. The next thing I knew, I was in and out of hospital undergoing an intense course of chemotherapy. I remember the time so clearly as it was during the Euros. We put up England flags in the wards for the semi-finals and tried to make things feel as normal as possible.”

After Brad had completed his chemotherapy treatment, further scans revealed a large, non-cancerous teratoma, requiring him to undergo open surgery to remove it and nearby lymph nodes.

Quote from Brad Hughes

Unfortunately I experienced heavy blood loss during the surgery, which meant it took twice as long as expected. I had to stay in hospital for a week, without any visitors due to Covid-19 measures. That was the hardest part - not being able to see my family. It was the longest week of my life, and I felt completely shut off from the world.”

Since receiving the all-clear in December 2021, Brad is now in his fourth year of having regular checks. Taking on the Leeds 10K this year was a way for him to help others - by raising vital funds so more people can benefit from life-saving cancer research.

Brad is running in the Leeds 10k and smiling happily at the camera. He is wearing a blue Yorkshire Cancer Research vest.

Brad is stood in the street in his running gear with his medal. His standing with two other people. They are all smiling at the camera.

Brad is stood in the street in his running gear and medal with his arm around a woman. They are both smiling at the camera.

Quote from Brad Hughes

Taking part in the Leeds 10K was a way for me to turn a very difficult time into something positive for others. As a proud Yorkshireman, I wanted to support a local charity that helps other people with cancer in my region. I met many brilliant people during my treatment, including a guy called Joe, who was being treated for testicular cancer at the same time. He is now one of my close friends.”

Brad completed the race alongside his friend for 15 years, Bruce, and was greeted at the finish line by his wife, mum, dad, nephew and father-in-law.

He concluded: “I’m so grateful for my family and friends. I don’t know how I would’ve got through it without them. Crossing the finish line wasn’t just an achievement for me, it was a moment for all of us. Holding that medal with them by my side meant everything.

Dr Kathryn Scott, Chief Executive at Yorkshire Cancer Research, said: “Thanks to the dedication and generosity of fundraisers across Yorkshire, Yorkshire Cancer Research can fund pioneering cancer research and innovative new services for people with cancer in the region. The money raised by Brad will help cancer researchers and experts across the region find new ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer, supporting the charity’s vision for a Yorkshire free of cancer.”

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