Retired dentists say thanks by raising thousands after returning to fitness following cancer battles
Two senior citizens both fought back to fitness after battling cancer and have raised thousands for the department which helped them.
Life-long friends Geraint Jeffreys and Wayne Richards trained together as dentists and had long careers taking care of patients’ oral health in Swansea, before their retirement.
Geraint, aged 75, needed the support of the South West Wales Cancer Centre at Swansea's Singleton Hospital after prostate cancer diagnosis, while 73--year-old Wayne was also a regular visitor for treatment of cancer in his tongue and neck.
But having been successfully treated, both men undertook significant physical challenges – taking part in a triathlon and undertaking a 125km walk.
In addition, they turned their hands to fund-raising, by hosting an evening of entertainment at the Langland Bay Golf Club, with an auction and raffle, which collected an incredible £12,540.
Geraint, who used to practice his dentistry in Manselton, took part in the famous Camino de Santiago trail in north west Spain in April just a few months after finishing his treatment.
He said: “I was treated during Covid and three years later it was identified that I had the cells growing again. I had fantastic treatment, staff had endless suggestions on how I could manage any issues that arose from treatment.
“I’m hugely proud of the way the NHS in Wales looks after people with serious difficulties. So my friend Wayne and I wanted to do something big as a way of thanking everyone.”
Wayne's cancer journey began after being diagnosed last autumn. Having also been successfully treated, he took part in the Llanelli Sprint Triathlon in May, in which he came third.
He said: “I had a swollen lymph gland and I asked staff at my old practice to take a look inside my mouth.
“I had some X-rays and was referred to Morriston. After imaging investigations and a biopsy I underwent radiotherapy and chemotherapy over six weeks.
"My brother had exactly the same cancer and was also treated successfully at the Centre.
“I had some fantastic care, it could not have been better. The staff were great and we just wanted to give something back.”
At the Langland fundraiser Macmillan Head and Neck Oncology Clinical Specialist Courtney Bell gave a presentation alongside Therapeutic Radiographer Natalie Moore to spotlight the work of the South West Wales Cancer Centre.
Of the total £12,540 that was raised, £6,270 was donated to the Radiotherapy Department in the South West Wales Cancer Centre and £6270 was donated to the Head and Neck Oncology Charity (HANOC).
Courtney said: “I was so grateful and honoured to be able to attend this fantastic event. Thank you again Wayne, Geraint and everyone who was involved to make it happen.”
“I feel truly privileged to be a Head and Neck Oncology Clinical Nurse Specialist. It means standing beside people during some of the most difficult and emotional moments of their lives. While the role can be challenging, it’s also incredibly rewarding."
“Myself and Caroline Bradley, Head and Neck Oncology Co-ordinator recently launched HANOC which is a small charity dedicated specifically to individual needs of head and neck cancer patients that fall under the South West Wales Cancer Centre.”
“We will use the funds donated for a host of items such as dry mouth products, nebulisers, information support packs and communication aids. These purchases will improve patient experience and support with expected side effects of their treatment.”
“We’re extremely grateful to Wayne and Geraint. Seeing them both having a complete response to their treatment, living life fully and finding joy again, is without a doubt the most meaningful part of our jobs."
Anna Iles, Interim Head of Service for the Radiotherapy Department added: “On behalf of everyone at the Radiotherapy Department, thank you for your generous donation. It will make a meaningful difference to our patients."
Swansea Bay Health Charity is the official charity of Swansea Bay University Health Board.
With your help the charity raises money for pioneering research, cutting-edge equipment, enhancing buildings and spaces, patient and family wellbeing and staff training which are not covered by core NHS funding.
Rydym yn croesawu gohebiaeth a galwadau ffôn yn y Gymraeg neu'r Saesneg. Atebir gohebiaeth Gymraeg yn y Gymraeg, ac ni fydd hyn yn arwain at oedi. Mae’r dudalen hon ar gael yn Gymraeg drwy bwyso’r botwm ar y dde ar frig y dudalen.
We welcome correspondence and telephone calls in Welsh or English. Welsh language correspondence will be replied to in Welsh, and this will not lead to a delay. This page is available in Welsh by clicking ‘Cymraeg’ at the top right of this page.