On Friday 13th May 2011, Chris heard the devastating words - “you have cancer”. His treatment at ENT Blackpool included radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and two neck dissections, and he was also fitted with a feeding PEG for 3 years. During this treatment he realised he needed emotional support but none was available, so he decided to start The Swallows Head and Neck Cancer Charity. Chris explains, “The charity is for patients, caregivers, family, and friends, so everyone understands and can meet, with support, the challenges that come when someone is diagnosed with head and neck cancer”. When patients are first diagnosed they mostly have no knowledge or awareness of head and neck cancer and don’t know what questions to ask. The journey can be a lonely and isolating experience, and through The Swallows Chris wants to ensure that no one must live with this disease alone. His aim is to help patients and caregivers improve their quality of life with and beyond cancer - survivorship is not survivorship without quality of life. Although the charity is UK based, they are supporting around 9000 patients and caregivers worldwide. It took Chris just six years to go from being diagnosed to being awarded an MBE - from cancer to the palace in just six years; it’s been quite a journey!