Nigel Lewis-Davidson had a heart attack while running last year.

“My main artery was 80% blocked; a bit disappointing for a man who had never smoked in his 69 years, had lost over 3.5 stone in recent years, given up alcohol, and started running at 66 years of age. I had also started strength exercises and very bad attempts at yoga in the last year. This was no sudden blockage but a build up over many years.”, Nigel shares.

After receiving life-saving treatment from Morriston Hospital Cardiac Unit, Nigel was grateful for the care he received and wanted to give something back. Nigel got in touch with Swansea Bay Health Charity to set up a regular donation supporting cardiac services and began planning future fundraisers.

During his hospital stay, Nigel says he began feeling defeated and depressed, but his conversation with the consultant turned things around:
“What he told me was to stop beating myself up because if I hadn’t made those decisions and changed my lifestyle, one, we probably wouldn’t be having this conversation, and two, my body would not have been strong enough to be offered this form of operation. I had a lot for which to be grateful.”

“My mum spent a large part of her life caring for others so I felt I would like to raise money in her memory to help future patients.”

After sadly losing her mum, Sandra, to cancer earlier this year, Rachel Cole took on the Swansea Half Marathon to support our Going the Extra Mile for Cancer Appeal, raising an impressive £1,440!

Although nervous before race day, Rachel said the atmosphere made all the difference. “The support, music and cheering on the way around really makes a difference. I actually enjoyed it much more than I thought I would, but I was glad when I got over the line at the end!”

Sandra received treatment at the South West Wales Cancer Centre’s chemotherapy day unit for over a year, where she always spoke warmly of the care she received and the nurses who took time to celebrate family milestones with her.

Rachel hopes the appeal, which will transform the cancer outpatient department into a more welcoming environment, will make a difference for future patients and their loved ones.

“When your loved one is having cancer treatment it’s a really difficult time and as a family member you just hope that they will be well looked after and as comfortable as possible during their time spent in hospital. Having improved facilities and a comfortable and welcoming environment can make all the difference.”

Thank you, Rachel, for going the extra mile in Sandra’s memory!

Ken Gears up for an Incredible Ironman Challenge

Charity Ambassador Ken Goddard is taking on the ultimate challenge: completing three Ironman races in one calendar year to raise vital funds for the Going the Extra Mile Cancer Appeal.

After months of dedication to training, Ken started off his quest with Ironman Bolton on 7^th June, crossing the finish line in 7 hours and 2 minutes – a result he was “absolutely chuffed” with.

“Now, with just two weeks to go until Ironman Swansea on 12^th July, training is going well. This race will be a real test, with one of the toughest bike courses on the Ironman circuit.”, Ken shares.

In memory of his dad, who sadly died from cancer in 2024, and his Auntie Lucy, Ken will take on Ironman 70.3 Swansea in July, before completing Ironman Wales in Tenby this September. After injury prevented him from finishing the event in 2024, he’s determined to cross the finish line this time.

Ken has been a long term supporter of the South West Wales Cancer Centre and the Going the Extra Mile for Cancer Appeal, following his dad’s passing. From bake sales to abseiling, he’s done it all! Now, he aims to raise £5,000 for the appeal which sets out to create a new Outpatients department within the former chemotherapy unit at Singleton Hospital.

The new Outpatients department aims to bring cancer care together in one place, create a space of comfort and dignity and to reopen the volunteer-run tea bar, which offers a moment of normality for patients and families during difficult times.

Reflecting on his motivation, Ken said: “The NHS staff at the Cancer Centre are true heroes. Their care, compassion and dedication mean the world to me and my family, and I want to help ensure they can continue their vital work.”

Good luck, Ken. We’ll be cheering you on every step of the way!

We are so grateful to everyone fundraising for Swansea Bay Health Charity this month. Every fundraiser, challenge and event helps us continue supporting patients, families and staff across Swansea Bay University Health Board!