A Menston resident who has been battling a rare form of cancer for the last two years has set himself a target to raise £20,000 for charity.
Johnny Ratcliffe, a local business owner who attended Ilkley Grammar School, was diagnosed with anorectal mucosal melanoma two years ago and was told the tragic news in January that his cancer is now terminal.
Johnny (45) and his wife, Melissa (43), are walking 15 miles from St James’ Hospital in Leeds to the Down Syndrome Support Service headquarters in Bingley, raising funds for Melanoma Focus, who research and campaign for Melanoma patients and Down Syndrome Training & Support, who help Johnny's son Leo.
Following a courageous two-year fight, which has seen the father of three undergo 8 complex operations as well as two courses of gruelling immunotherapy, Johnny felt compelled to complete one last challenge to support his family 'whilst he still can'.
The walk, which will take place on Friday 21st March 2025, will be physically and mentally exhausting for Johnny and it is likely he will need to be pushed in a specially adapted wheelchair for parts of it due to the recent decline in his health. However, Johnny is determined to walk as much of the distance as he can manage on the day and says:
“I’ve been battling this incurable cancer for two years now, and I’ve tried everything, but sadly there isn’t a cure for mucosal melanoma. It's important that even if there isn't a treatment for me, there is for future generations - Melanoma Focus is campaigning for just that.”
Johnny is acutely aware of the difficulties his wife will face bringing up three young children without him, particularly since Leo has significant special needs. He hopes the funds he will raise from this event will mean the local charity will be able to continue the vital support they currently provide to the family.
For more information and to donate online, please visit: https://www.justgiving.com/team/johnnys