Ten years ago, Ian Graham could never have imagined how equipment he fundraised for might go on to save his life. 

Then, earlier this year, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer. 

He is now being treated at the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital using brachytherapy. 

This is a specialist form of radiotherapy, which sees a sealed radiation source inserted into or close to the area requiring treatment, and will be followed by four weeks of daily standard radiotherapy.

Eastern Daily Press: Ian Graham

Mr Graham is the district governor for East Anglia for Rotary International and his treatment comes a decade after he was involved in the Targeted Radiotherapy Appeal – the N&N Hospitals Charity’s biggest fundraising appeal at the time. 

He said: “I was diagnosed back in the spring, and I had to undergo hormone treatment for a while and have now, following the brachytherapy operation, begun the four weeks of daily treatment. 

Eastern Daily Press: Norfolk and Norwich Hospital

“The staff have been fantastic, really amazing, always willing to answer any questions, and making sure you understand everything that is happening, helping to overcome the fear of the unknown.” 

The appeal raised a total of £600,000 to create a brachytherapy suite at the Colney Centre at the N&N, and involved an international partnership between Rotary members in East Anglia and Rotarians across the globe. 

Mr Graham, who lives in the Aylsham area, added: “I was involved a lot in the paperwork, and I remember it well.  

“I would like to thank the people of East Anglia and around the world who donated funds to Rotary Clubs which has enabled me to have this treatment at the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital.” 

  • For more information about the N&N Hospitals Charity, contact by emailing fundraising@nnuh.nhs.uk or call 01603 287462.