Cancer Survivor's Incredible Journey from Broken Back to Mountain Summit
David Macartney, a 51-year-old from Hazel Grove, Stockport, has defied the odds after an aggressive cancer diagnosis left his back broken in eleven places. Once a super-fit runner who completed the London Marathon, David's life changed forever when he discovered a small lump under his armpit in early 2022.
A Shocking Diagnosis and Gruelling Treatment
After mentioning the lump to his GP, David was quickly placed on a cancer pathway, leading to a diagnosis of stage 4 non-Hodgkin lymphoma. He described the moment as terrifying, facing fears of dying and leaving his family behind. David began intensive chemotherapy at The Christie hospital in Manchester, joining a clinical trial that successfully put his cancer into remission. However, the powerful medication had devastating side effects, leaving him in agony, dependent on morphine, and unable to move the lower half of his body for six weeks.
The Physical and Mental Battle
David's active lifestyle, which included running, cycling, hiking, and kayaking, was abruptly halted. He needed two crutches to move short distances, experiencing severe pain and significant mental health challenges. At his lowest point, he felt everything had been taken away, struggling to accept help and watching friends participate in events he could no longer join.
Road to Recovery Through Supportive Care
With the help of physiotherapist Nic and the team at The Christie, David embarked on a tailored pain management and physiotherapy programme. This approach broke his pain cycle and taught him to manage symptoms through movement and exercise. Professor Richard Berman, a consultant in supportive oncology at The Christie, emphasised that David's story underscores the importance of holistic care, focusing on pain management, physical rehabilitation, and psychological well-being to help patients regain independence.
A Triumphant Return to Activity
Nearly a year after finishing treatment, David achieved a milestone he once thought impossible: climbing Snowdon in north Wales. He described the ascent as slow and careful, but a testament to his recovery. David has also resumed kayaking and aims to get back on his bike in 2026. While pain persists, he no longer relies on daily medication and has learned to live more honestly, blocking out noise and protecting his energy as part of his recovery.
David now plans to take on the Manchester 10K to raise funds for The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, inspiring others with his story of resilience and hope.
