Grandad says clinical trial has ‘kept me alive’ after blood cancer diagnosis

“At first I put it down to my training,” said Saeed. “I was running two or three times a week preparing for the Wilmslow 10K, but the tiredness didn’t go away.”

Saeed visited his GP, who also noticed some small swellings behind his ears and arranged blood tests.

Further investigations led to a CT scan at Macclesfield Hospital, which identified a growth in his bowel. Concerned that his bowel cancer may have returned, Saeed underwent a colonoscopy and biopsy.

Instead, doctors discovered he had mantle cell lymphoma (MCL), a rare type of blood cancer that affects white blood cells that help the body fight infection.

Saeed was initially due to begin standard chemotherapy treatment, but asked whether any clinical trials were available.

He said: “I was very lucky and managed to find a suitable clinical trial.”

The trial is studying a combination of three drugs that had previously been used individually and have been successful for many years. Saeed is now part-way through the five-and-a-half-year study and says the results have been life changing.

“It’s been absolutely amazing to be part of this clinical trial. I wouldn’t have it any other way,” he said.

“There are many clinical trials currently available on the NHS. My experience is that being on a clinical trial has been very positive and there’s nothing to be scared of.

“Clinical trials do not necessarily test brand new medications. In my case, all three drugs had been used before, but researchers are looking at whether they can work even better when used together for patients who have not been previously treated on any other medication.”

Saeed hopes sharing his experience during Blood Cancer Awareness Month this September will encourage more people to seek medical advice if they notice symptoms that concern them. He also hopes people who may to be diagnosed with cancer will consider clinical trials.

The granddad-of-one, from Wilmslow, said: “There is a big disparity between the number of people taking part in clinical trials in more deprived and less deprived areas and I’d really like to get the message out that there is nothing to be scared of. Afterall you will be helping yourself as well as paving the way for better future treatments for your children.

“If you find yourself in this position, it’s worth looking into. Always ask whether there are any clinical trials available.

“Of course, it hasn’t all been plain sailing. , but overall life is good.”

As well as continuing his treatment, Saeed regularly looks after his five-year-old grandson and has established fortnightly dance socials. He remains passionate about helping others affected by cancer and is a member of the Greater Manchester Cancer Voices community, which helps bring patient experiences into shaping cancer care.

He said: “I think you should listen to your body. If something doesn’t feel right or isn’t how it used to be, go and see your GP.

“Tell them how you feel, explain the differences you’ve noticed and ask for advice. Be assertive and advocate for yourself because you know when something isn’t right.

“It’s also important to know the symptoms to look out for so educate yourself about cancer. The more you know about cancer, the better equipped you are to seek help when you need it.”