Cancer survivor Adrian is a true inspiration
A father-of-two who dedicated his time to charity after being given life-saving treatment has received a national award from Cancer Research UK.
Adrian Webb, from Netherton, was given a year to live in 2013 after his skin cancer spread to his lungs, lymph nodes, spleen, bowel, liver and spine.
With treatment options running out, Adrian agreed to take part in three clinical trials which completely changed his life and enabled him to start campaigning for Cancer Research UK.
The charity’s annual Flame of Hope awards acknowledge remarkable efforts in fundraising and volunteering. Adrian was nominated by staff at the charity for the ‘Ambassador of the Year’ award which recognises those volunteers who use their passion and enthusiasm to inspire others.
Since his diagnosis Adrian has shared his powerful story in newspapers, online and on TV as well as at numerous Cancer Research UK events. His story has helped inspire fundraisers to reach £21 million for the charity.
Adrian’s story first hit the headlines after he made a home-made social media video with his son Josh in 2015. The video achieved 65,000 hits in the space of an hour when it was published on Cancer Research UK’s Facebook page.
The video ends by saying there is no cure for Adrian’s cancer. However, thanks to advances in treatment, more recent scans have shown no trace of the disease.
“I’m passionate about sharing my story to demonstrate the importance of research,” said Adrian, a manager at Headstock Distribution in Halesowen.
“It’s never been about me but I’m truly touched and honoured to have been given this accolade.”
Adrian was diagnosed with skin cancer in 2012 when his wife Michelle noticed a blemish on his back and insisted he saw a GP.
Fabulous
“I probably would have ignored it but she insisted I got it checked out so she saved my life,” he said.
“I had surgery to remove a chunk of meat from my back and we thought that was it.”
Months later Adrian discovered a lump under his arm and discovered the cancer had spread to his lungs, liver, bowel, spleen and spine.
“When I was told I might only have a year left to live I cried like a baby,” said Adrian.
“That’s when I was told about a new trial I could go on. I said I would try anything so I signed up straight away.”
Adrian has taken part in three drug trials in total and is now in remission.
“My life is fabulous now,” said Adrian.
“I’m still on treatment for some of the side effects of the drugs but that’s not important. What’s important is making the best of every day. If my story can help other people then I’m happy to keep telling it.”
Karen Stafford, media volunteer liaison officer at Cancer Research UK, said: “Adrian is a truly inspirational person.”
