For Keith, from Poole in Dorset, life has always been about creativity and communication. From serving as a RAF photographer for 23 years to working at Bournemouth University in the Faculty of Media and Communication, he built a career around visual storytelling and technical expertise. But in 2020, his life took an unexpected turn when he was diagnosed with oesophageal cancer.
Recognising the Signs
Looking back, the symptoms had been creeping in for a while. Keith had trouble eating bread, experiencing indigestion and a sticking sensation when swallowing. By 2019, this discomfort became more frequent, often accompanied by hiccups at nearly every meal.
After a particularly distressing “pasty incident” in October 2019, where food seemed stuck and wouldn’t move either up or down, he consulted a practice nurse, who prescribed stomach liners. But by March 2020, his symptoms had worsened, and weight loss added to his concerns. His GP referred him to Poole Hospital for an endoscopy, where he received the devastating news – two tumours on his oesophagus and a prognosis of 2 to 24 months to live.
Treatment and Surgery
Hope came when further tests revealed that one of the tumours was benign, making surgery a possibility. First, Keith underwent FLOT chemotherapy in April 2020, just after his 60th birthday and at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. In August 2020, he had major surgery at Royal Bournemouth Hospital, performed by Mr. Cowie. A week later, he was discharged to begin his recovery, followed by a second round of chemo in October 2020 – a tough but necessary step.
Life After Cancer
Determined to regain a sense of normality, Keith started a phased return to work in February 2021, eventually building back up to five days a week. But after 2 years of managing the aftereffects of treatment, he retired on ill-health grounds in October 2023.
Now in his fourth year of post-surgery monitoring, Keith has learned to adapt. Acid reflux is still an issue, especially at night, but by avoiding certain foods and dairy, he has managed to improve his symptoms. Throughout everything, his wife Mel has been his rock – he jokes that she “deserves a medal” for her unwavering support.
Embracing Retirement
Despite the challenges, Keith is making the most of life. Married for 44 years, he and Mel enjoy walking, lunches out, and live music – both locally and in London. He still pursues photography, loves visiting heritage railways, and continues to play the guitar. Their daughters, Jayne and Katy, are a big part of their lives – though while Jayne has four children, Katy prefers cats!
Keith’s journey is a testament to resilience, adaptation, and the importance of seeking help when something feels wrong. Though his diagnosis was life-changing, he continues to find joy in the things he loves – and to live life to the fullest.
