A former Chorley paramedic who took his life for granted and ignored “pain” has been given just two years to live after a devastating prostate cancer diagnosis.
Andrew Gibson, who has served in the army in addition to his job in the NHS, is taking on a giant 500-mile tractor drive to encourage people in the farming community to take action on their prostate health.
He will set off from Badminton Estate in South Gloucestershire on September 17 and travel across the English countryside before arriving at Hoghton Towers.
In April 2022, Andrew collapsed whilst refereeing a rugby match and was diagnosed with stage four prostate cancer shortly afterwards.
The next day he will complete his journey home and arrive at Bristol GenesisCare Outpatient Care Centre, where he has been receiving treatment since his diagnosis.
Andrew said: “I took my health for granted and even when I started to experience the odd aches, stiffness and pain I chalked it up to living a very active lifestyle, but I now see that this was a huge missed opportunity and cost me dearly.”
“I am committed to spending the time I have left educating the active farming community not to take aches and pains lightly and to value their prostate health. Listen to your body, understand the signs and symptoms and don't let your guard down.”
“I would be very happy if my story inspires other people who may have symptoms or wonder about them to get tested.”
Riding tractors was born out of a love for the countryside and he had to find something suitable given his condition.
Andrew added: “When I decided to set myself a fundraising challenge, I had to think outside the box.
“I can't run marathons or climb mountains anymore, but I love road trips and I'm a country boy at heart, so there's nothing I enjoy more than riding a tractor.”
Research has shown that people who live in rural areas or on farms are less likely to take up preventive health measures, including cancer screening.
TH White donated his proven T6/T7 for his road trip and the care team at GenesisCare donated their time and resources with the goal of raising awareness of the disease.
Andrew was diagnosed with stage 4 prostate cancer in 2022 (Image: Fearless PR)
Andrew has received support from TV and radio presenter and former rugby union player Ugo Monye, who has worked with Andrew on another prostate cancer awareness campaign.
Monie said: “I'm always amazed by Andrew's passion and dedication. It was a real honour to work with him earlier this year, and when I heard about his 'Harvest your Prostate Health' campaign I knew I wanted to go and support him.”
