A MAN who has recovered from bowel cancer is taking part in a boxing event to raise money for Cancer Research UK.

Stephen Emson, a technical caseworker at Care and Repair Worcestershire, a part of Fortis Living, will take part in the Ultra White Collar Boxing event on Saturday, December 14, at Perdiswell Leisure Centre.

Mr Emson, of Worcester, was diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2017, and since recovering he’s been involved with UWCB to raise money.

He said: "I was showing symptoms for around about six months before I took myself to get checked.

"I visited my GP on a number of occasions in 2017 only to be told my symptoms were a result of irritable bowel syndrome or related to me being type 1 diabetic.

"I only went to get checked out following constant nagging and urging from my partner Emma.

"If it hadn’t been for her concern and care I probably wouldn’t have gone.

"It was a massive shock to me and my family, with an 18 month old little boy, Henry, at home it was almost unthinkable that I wouldn’t be around to see him grow up.

"I had all sorts of thoughts running around in my head about how to tell him I wouldn’t always be around for him and Emma.

"Three days after my diagnosis I was in hospital having what turned out to be life saving surgery.

The NHS staff who cared for me were unbelievable; the surgeon was, well, a life saver and to this day personally oversees my check ups and ongoing support.

"The Macmillan nurses are very very special people and will always be there for mine and my families support and for other people in the same position.

He is training at Iron Fight Club in Hindlip Lane, in readiness for the event.

“I would highly recommend the boxing club to anyone, since the last UWCB event the coaches and members have helped me emotionally to deal with things and have been so welcoming.”

Stephen has a page where friends, family and colleagues can donate at justgiving.com/fundraising/stephen-emson.

He said: "After looking at what I could have lost, I feel I have a duty to keep raising money for research and treatment and to help build awareness.”

Tickets for the event are still available, from Mr Emson on 07918 163109 or at Stephen.Emson@platformhg.com.