BBC presenter Gethin Jones grew visibly emotional as he spoke about his close friend Craig Maxwell, who has been fighting stage four cancer for several years after being diagnosed at age 40.
During a conversation with Wales Online, Jones struggled to discuss his friend's life, saying: "I don't want to say the word legacy, because...I don't like the thought of that word, it sounds final," before stopping himself.
Reflections on Life
Jones reflected on how his friend's illness has changed his outlook, saying: "It's definitely changed my reflections on life. Like, I just don't feel like I have anything to complain about. You know? Sometimes I feel quite guilty. I know you live your own perspective, and the word inspiration is probably overused, but I suppose every day I think about both of them, and I try to make the most of the day, you know?"
He added: "Enjoy the challenges, enjoy the stresses, understand that we're trying to do a good job when you go into work, and try and do a good job, and then try and leave work behind."
Friend's Positive Attitude
Jones praised Maxwell's resilience, saying: "I think that's what I've learned from him as a friend, and that he's just unbelievable. He just never gives in."
"He's always positive. Even this morning, he's obviously struggling in hospital, and he's messaging me about the night and the things that he wants on the evening."
Charity Efforts
Jones joined Maxwell on a 780-mile charity walk two years ago and is now preparing to host a gala evening on 29th October to raise additional funds.
Maxwell, the Welsh Rugby Union's former commercial director, has spent the last four years fundraising for Velindre Cancer Care following his diagnosis with terminal and inoperable bone and lung cancer. He has raised approximately £1.7m, with hopes the upcoming event will push the total past £2m.
