Leyland man with brain tumour to share his experiences on TV

A man who is battling a brain tumour is to feature in a BBC documentary to highlight the need for more money to be spent on research and treatments.
Rob HowardRob Howard
Rob Howard
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The 33-year-old was diagnosed with brain cancer - Glioblastoma Multiforme Stage 4 - last September after suffering from severe headaches. Although chemotherapy at Rosemere Cancer Centre has shrunk the tumour slightly, he will still need to fund specialist therapy in Germany - or even Istanbul - which could cost £50,000.

Following a wide spread social media campaign, the BBC approached Rob and has been following him throughout chemotherapy and fund-raising events.

Rob HowardRob Howard
Rob Howard
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He said: “I got an email from the BBC three weeks ago asking if I would take part in a documentary.

“I believe crews have interviewed other people with the same condition, as well as Tessa Jowell MP who also has brain cancer.

“At first I didn’t want to do it but I felt I should to help raise awareness of the need for more spending on brain tumours as not a lot is spent at all.

“It will also help get my story out there.”

Emma and Rob HowardEmma and Rob Howard
Emma and Rob Howard

Rob added he is trying to remain positive about his illness, especially after scans revealed a slight shrinkage to the tumour.

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He said: “My first scan a couple of months ago showed the tumour had shrunk but there was still a haze. We had another scan last week and the haze is still there, The results were not conclusive, but my blood results were okay and I am feeling fine so I have been able to carry on with the chemotherapy tablets.

“My fifth round of chemo started on Thursday and will carry on until Monday.

“I am allowed six cycles and then I will have a break for two or three months.

Rob Howard with his brother Pete, who competed in the Greater Manchester MarathonRob Howard with his brother Pete, who competed in the Greater Manchester Marathon
Rob Howard with his brother Pete, who competed in the Greater Manchester Marathon

“It takes a lot out of you as I feel very tired.

“I have to have scans every three months to monitor everything. The news I have a brain tumour is not good, but I am thinking positively about everything.”

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Rob and his wife, Emma, 29, have been busy fund-raising and so far funds have reached more than £13,000.

Rob, an electrician, added: “I am hoping to have reached half way there by the end of the year and then maybe in another 12 months have £50,000. But the sooner I reach my target the better. It is amazing how generous people have been. I am really pleased.”

To make a donation visit https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/teamrobFund-raising:

Three Peaks- Will Magowan, Anton Tsarev, Alex and Jason Wadsworth will climb the Three Peaks and cycle between each one. Visit https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/teamrob3peaksBrave the Shave - Emma and Rob organised a Brave the Shave event, raising more than £2,500

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Greater Manchester Marathon- Rob’s brother, Pete completed the marathon with friend Dave Rose. Emma and family members did the relay race.

White Collar Boxing - Ashley Fox and James Dyer competed in a white collar boxing event at Preston Guild Hall

Beer Festival - Music and beer festival at Grange Lane Garage, Hutton, on June 30, 7.30pm, Tickets £10. There will be fire breathers and gin bar.

Total Warrior - Rob's friends take on Total Warrior on August 4

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Charity ball- A charity ball will take place at Kilhey Court, in Standish, on October 27. Tickets £50. For details and to donate prizes visit https://www.facebook.com/TeamRob-wwwjustgivingcomcrowdfundingteamrob-562292947467310/

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