22/07/2026
People become Plymouth Cancer Champions for all sorts of reasons. For many it's because they have been affected by cancer in some way. Whatever the reason it's about coming together to make a difference.
Meet Mark - Mark has just signed up as a cancer champion. He wants his story to perhaps change someone else's story.
Hi, I'm Mark Astbury. By day, I'm a Curriculum Lead at a local college in Plymouth, where I have the privilege of supporting and developing young people. Outside of work, I'm a group exercise instructor, so keeping active has always been a big part of who I am.
In March 2025, life took an unexpected turn when I was diagnosed with Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) behind my left knee. What initially seemed like an isolated issue led to further blood tests, which revealed low iron levels. Those results prompted additional investigations, including a colonoscopy and an endoscopy.
The endoscopy identified Barrett's oesophagus, a condition linked to long-term acid reflux. A follow-up biopsy in June 2025 confirmed that the Barrett's oesophagus had become cancerous. PET and CT scans then confirmed a diagnosis of Stage 2 oesophageal cancer, thankfully with no spread beyond the oesophagus.
Treatment was certainly a marathon rather than a sprint. I underwent four rounds of intensive chemotherapy, followed by a major oesophagectomy in Nov 2025, six weeks of recovery, and then a further four rounds of chemotherapy to complete my treatment.
Throughout the journey, I was determined not to let cancer define me. Remaining as physically active as possible played a huge role in maintaining both my physical and mental wellbeing. Staying positive wasn't always easy—there were undoubtedly some difficult days—but I chose to focus on what I could control rather than what I couldn't. That mindset, combined with incredible support from my wife, family, friends, work colleagues and the amazing NHS teams who cared for me, made all the difference.
If there's one message I'd like people to take away from my experience, it's this:
Never ignore your body. Whether it's an ache, a lump, a bump, persistent fatigue or something that just doesn't feel right, get it checked. Early investigation gave me the opportunity to receive treatment before my cancer had spread, and that has made all the difference.
If sharing my story encourages even one person to seek medical advice sooner, then it's been worth telling.
Life may throw the occasional curveball, but with determination, support, a positive mindset—and perhaps a little stubbornness—you can face challenges one step at a time.
Wolseley Trust Citizens Advice Plymouth Plymouth Community Builders The Jan Cutting Healthy Living Centre Wellbeing Hub YMCA Plymouth Plymouth on Tap Plymouth Mariners Baseball Club Andys Man Club Plymouth Plymouth Community Homes Four Greens Community Trust Burrington Community Hub The Rees Centre Family and Wellbeing HubMiranda Ritchie Mark Astbury
