Shropshire Star

Veteran with terminal cancer cycling 100 miles each month for charity

Terry Butcher, 61, had 29 years’ service in the RAF.

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Terry Butcher

A veteran with terminal cancer is cycling 100 miles each month to raise money for military charities.

Terry Butcher, 61, from Paignton, Devon, was diagnosed with bowel cancer in January 2019 and went through several stages of treatment including chemoradiotherapy and an operation to remove the tumour in August that year.

He began further chemotherapy in October but suffered a stroke and was diagnosed with diabetes.

“It looked like the cancer was beaten as I overcame the stroke and diabetes,” Mr Butcher said.

“Unfortunately for me, the cancer escaped and got into my lungs and liver. This is terminal but I hope it will take some considerable time to get to that stage.”

Terry Butcher
Terry Butcher served in the Middle East and Northern Ireland (SSAFA/PA)

Mr Butcher joined the RAF in November 1976 as an aircraft engineer, serving in the Middle East and Northern Ireland.

He left after 29 years of service and worked supporting apprentices at South Devon College.

Following his diagnosis, Mr Butcher was referred to SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, for support.

The charity secured funding from the RAF Benevolent Fund for household equipment to make mobility easier, as well as an electronic bike.

He is using the bike to raise money for three charities – SSAFA, the RAF Benevolent Fund and Help for Heroes.

His fundraising page can be found here.

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