A fit father-of-three has been given nine months to live after difficulties swallowing led to a diagnosis of terminal cancer. John Robertson, 35, was diagnosed with Stage 4 oesophageal adenocarcinoma last month, which has spread to his liver, lungs, throat, and right adrenal gland.
Diagnosis after months of symptoms
John, from Ayr, began experiencing trouble swallowing food in February, leading to a three-stone weight loss in two and a half months and agonising chest pain similar to a heart attack. He visited his GP and was fast-tracked for an endoscopy, which revealed a bleed and a mass tumour covering 75 per cent of his oesophagus. Doctors told him he had potentially been carrying the tumour for years and that earlier detection was not possible.
Family and future plans
John is married to Nicole, 29, and has three children: Jorja, 15, Paris-Cole, eight, and Clay-Ty, four. He said: "It was the most devastating, world-crushing news. My world fell apart. My kids don't deserve to lose their dad so young." He added that he fears missing milestones like walking his daughters down the aisle and watching his son grow up.
Health and treatment
Despite his diagnosis, John remains active and strong. He is on a liquid diet and will begin chemotherapy this month, possibly requiring a feeding tube. He said: "I refuse to believe that my time is almost over." Doctors have told him he will appear healthy until the end, aside from becoming paler and thinner.
Fundraising for treatment and memories
John has launched a fundraising campaign to cover private medical treatments and clinical trials not available on the NHS, including trials in Germany and London. The funds will also help create lasting memories with his family. He said: "We're trying to cram a lifetime of experiences into a few months. I'm writing cards and recording video messages for my family to cover birthdays and other celebrations. I want them to know I will still be there with them through every milestone."
