A Darlington dad and veteran battling terminal prostate cancer is set to take on an extraordinary endurance challenge in a bid to raise funds for a fellow cancer sufferer.
Chris Ward, a 35-year-old veteran originally from Catterick Garrison but living in Darlington, is facing a battle against terminal prostate cancer but is determined to make the most of his time by helping others.
Chris, who served in the Army for 12 years and did a tour of Afghanistan, was diagnosed with cancer in 2023.
Chris with his two daughters, Esme ten and Romee, seven. (Image: PROVIDED) He initially cleared the disease but was devastated to learn it had returned a year later, with doctors confirming it is terminal.
Despite the diagnosis, Chris, who has two young daughters, Esme, ten, and Romee, seven, is focused on giving back.
Chris said: "Since April, I have turned to faith to help me along with my cancer journey, and with that comes helping others as much as I can with what time I have left on this earth."
“This challenge is something personal – to test and push me, as I have done my whole life, always pushed myself to the limits.”
He has set himself the challenge of climbing the equivalent of Mount Everest.
Chris's challenge is going to be climbing Helvellyn in the Lake District 9.5 times in 24 hours, on September 11.
Chris with his daughter Romee and Pastor Johan from the Christian Revival Church with his daughter (Image: PROVIDED) The extraordinary feat will be completed with two of his army mates, as part of his fundraising efforts for a woman with breast cancer, whose disease is treatable, unlike his own.
Chris also runs his own epoxy resin business, The Resin Doctor.
Although not currently in treatment, he is due to begin intense radiotherapy in June.
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The date of the challenge was chosen to allow him time to complete it before treatment begins and to allow for training.
His aunt, Michelle McDermott, described Chris as “completely selfless,” saying, “Reading his GoFundMe page breaks my heart. Life is not fair.”
Chris has set up a GoFundMe page to support his cause, you can donate to it here.