A dad from Blackburn is preparing to swim a mile in Lake Windermere next month to raise money for The Christie where he was successfully treated for leukaemia.

Robert Schofield, 45, was diagnosed with the disease just before Christmas in 2001 and underwent a bone marrow transplant after discovering his brother Phillip was a match.

He said; "Before I was diagnosed, I didn't really have many symptoms really so it was a bit of a shock to say the least. I'd been having a few headaches and my wife Ruth said I should go to the doctors. So I had a blood test and that's when it was picked up. I couldn't believe it - you never think it'll happen to you do you?

"The leukaemia was quite aggressive so I couldn't have the transplant straight away. I had chemotherapy and radiotherapy as well, and as odd as it sounds, I couldn't wait to get in there and start treatment. I wanted to get rid of the disease so I could get on with the rest of my life."

Robert, who works as a production manager, was treated at The Christie's haematology and transplant unit. The unit is one of the biggest in the country conducting on average 100 transplants a year.

Robert added; "I had the transplant at the end of June 2002 and was in isolation for about eight weeks. By March 2003 I was back at work! I can't praise The Christie enough for how I was looked after - I owe staff there my life. It's because of The Christie that I survived and got to become a dad to our beautiful little girl Florence.

"I can't wait to do the Great North Swim now - it's something really fun to do and means I'll also be able to raise more money for The Christie. I've been training three to four times a week and have already raised a few hundred pounds. I can't wait to dive in!"

The swim, on the 4th and 5th September is the first event of its kind in the UK. The event is now in its third year and hopes to grow into the largest swim in Europe.

Sporting events officer at the Christie charity, Emma Tilley, said; "We're absolutely thrilled that Robert's taking part in the Great North Swim in aid of our charity. He shows how more and more people are beating cancer and going on to lead normal, healthy lives.

"Money raised from this event will help pay for vital equipment, research and extra services to help other patients both live with and survive cancer."

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