A Tyneside granddad has been given nine to twelve months to live after being diagnosed with advanced mesothelioma, and his granddaughter has launched a fundraising campaign to fill his final months with "great memories".
Keith Rollo, 79, received the diagnosis earlier this year. His illness followed around four years of health problems, during which his breathlessness was initially put down to pneumonia and pleurisy.
An "incredibly kind" man
Charlotte Hutchinson, Keith's granddaughter, said her granddad had been a vital part of the community for decades. "I don't believe anyone could ever have said a bad word about him," she said.
The family, from Dumpling Hall, said the diagnosis had been heartbreaking, especially as Keith has been married for 53 years.
Fundraiser for "great memories"
Charlotte decided to set up the fundraiser while Keith was in hospital struggling with his breathing. "I decided to make the fundraiser when granddad was in hospital. He had been struggling with his breathing. I think I realised that personally, I believe he deserves so much more. He's an incredibly kind man who knows everyone," she said.
"With the money donated, we want to be able to send him for a real treat, and some really great memories. And anything else we raise will be split between Daft as a Brush and Mesothelioma Research UK."
A "major struggle"
Charlotte explained that much of daily life had become a "major struggle" for Keith, and she wanted to find ways to make things easier. On her fundraising page, she wrote: "He is currently relying on a walking stick, but it's just not enough, and I believe he deserves more."
She added: "Every donation made will help provide him with the things he needs to make his last moments just a little easier, or even simple things to help him regain some of his independence and enjoy everyday life again."
Treasured moments
Charlotte described her granddad's importance in her life. "He has always been there for me from the moment I was born and has always been such a huge part of my life. He's constantly making me smile and laugh with his terrible jokes and sarcastic comments. I treasure all of the little moments we've shared, like when he used to pick me up from primary school or take the dog for walks in the park. Those moments meant everything to me."
A "bit of a mystery"
Keith, who worked all his life as a shoe repairer, said the diagnosis was "a bit of a mystery" as he had never worked in professions often linked to asbestos exposure. "It was a big surprise - and it's a bit of a mystery as I was a shoe repairer all my life. From being a teenager to 65!"
