From night sweats to half marathons – how Ant overcame Hodgkin lymphoma
Ant believes that running saved his life following his diagnosis with Hodgkin lymphoma
In 2021, 46-year-old Anthony (known as Ant) found himself waking up in the night soaked in sweat. However, he wasn’t overly concerned and attributed it to extra alcohol intake during the pandemic, little realising that a diagnosis of Hodgkin lymphoma was just around the corner…
Ant, who is an avid runner, also noticed he was lacking the energy to complete his longer runs. “I wasn’t enjoying my running and began doing shorter runs to compensate.”
New symptoms inspired Ant to get medical advice
Then in April 2023, in addition to the now established night sweats and energy loss, new symptoms appeared, which forced Ant to acknowledge that something really wasn’t right.
“I experienced intense itching on my legs. It was particularly bad at night, when I scratched myself so hard while asleep that my legs would bleed.”
Eventually, in December, the combination of sleepless nights and lacerated legs compelled Ant to book an appointment with his GP.
“I was prescribed cream and antihistamines for my itching, although there was no sign of infection. The following year, in February, as there was no improvement to my condition, I was given a series of blood tests. All the results proved inconclusive. Then in April, I started wheezing and having trouble breathing.”
Cause for serious concern
Ant underwent numerous tests before his cancer was diagnosed
By now Ant was seriously concerned about the deterioration in his physical health. He was sent for an x-ray, which revealed a large mass on his chest. Lung cancer was suspected.
More tests followed, including a biopsy, which confirmed that Ant had early stage unfavourable Hodgkin lymphoma.
“I was actually relieved when I was given the diagnosis – I had felt uncomfortable for so long it was good to have an answer, despite the enormity of the diagnosis.”
Ant’s family and friends proved exceptionally supportive, helping keep him positive.
Family and friends help keep Ant positive
Ant describes himself as a glass half full kind of person and remained upbeat throughout his treatment
“I’m a single guy with no children, which is a good thing in a way. My family were great, but my friends in particular were unbelievable. People who I’ve known for decades really stepped up, coming to appointments and checking in on me daily.”
Treatment for Ant meant undergoing an intensive course of chemotherapy for around four months. Although he took time off work, Ant was determined to stay as active as possible – walking to and from appointments and treatment sessions at Lincoln County Hospital, working out in the gym three to four times a week and even walking his mother’s dog.
There were dark days, Ant admits, particularly in the final weeks of treatment, when his chemo treatment changed and he was in a huge amount of pain.
“Luckily, I’m a glass half full type of person and have always had a positive outlook. My local hospital gave me excellent support, as did Macmillan. I’m also a member of a Lymphoma support group on Facebook, which I found really helpful. But overall, my family and friends have been a huge part of my cancer journey.
A Chemo Kit from Cancer Support UK proves a godsend
“My Chemo Kit was a godsend during treatment” says Ant
“Early on in treatment, a friend told me about Cancer Support UK and I ordered a Chemo Kit immediately. It was a godsend. Every item was useful and helped so much that I continued to buy many of the items after I had used up all the ones in the kit. The mouthwash, toothpaste and lemon sweets were particularly beneficial as the chemo affected my mouth.”
“As money was very tight at the time, I vowed that when I returned to running, I would raise money to help pay for some kits to support others, as the kit helped me so much. I am very grateful to have received the kit. Thank you to everyone who donated and made my kit possible.”
By early September 2024, Ant had completed his chemotherapy and three weeks later returned to work.
Running saved my life
Ant stayed active during treatment by running, going to the gym and even walking his mum’s dog
Ant believes that keeping active throughout treatment was key to his speedy recovery – constantly asking his consultant when he could return to running. “The minute she said I could resume running, I got back on the treadmill. I always say running and keeping active saved my life.”
“I’ve been a keen runner now for about 13 years and enjoy the challenge of competing. I began with park runs (169 so far), but I’m also proud of my marathon records, including one ultra-marathon (100k over two days), seven marathons and 20 half marathons.”
Fundraiser half marathon in aid of Cancer Support UK
Anthony will run in aid of Cancer Support UK in the Lincoln Half Marathon
On 5 October 2025, Ant will run in aid of Cancer Support UK in the Jane Tomlinson Run for All Lincoln half marathon, which has been his goal since the beginning of 2025.
Coincidentally, the race date marks just over a year since Ant completed his final chemotherapy session.
“Although I’ve done the distance many times in the past and even longer distances, I think this may well be my biggest running challenge to date. Beating cancer and getting myself back to a position where I can once again do what I love and which has helped me so much, in my hometown, will be my proudest running achievement.”
Inspired to fundraise?
Ant’s fantastic fundraising challenge is just one of many ways you can fundraise to support Cancer Support UK. From physical challenges like running a marathon, skydiving, or sponsored walks, to give-it-up challenges such as giving up alcohol for a month, skill-sharing events like online cooking classes or workshops, and creative ideas like holding a themed party, getting a bold makeover. Head over to our fundraising ideas page for inspiration or download a fundraising pack.
Please support Ant’s fundraiser
You can support Ant and Cancer Support UK by visiting his Just Giving Page to make a donation.
Learn more about Hodgkin lymphoma
More information about Hodgkin lymphoma can be found on the Cancer Support UK website.
