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Rawdon man conquers Kilimanjaro
A LEEDS man with a life-threatening illness is feeling on top of the world after climbing the highest mountain in Africa.
Mark Nixon has reached the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro despite years of gruelling treatment for cancer.
The 32-year-old, who lives in Rawdon, was told several years ago that he only had a 50 per cent chance of surviving.
He said he was feeling "fantastic but a bit emotional" after scaling the heights and seeing the view from Uhuru peak, at some 5,895 metres the highest point of the mountain.
Mark, who before his illness played rugby for Otley, achieved the summit at 6am last Saturday after the long trek to the top.
He said: " It was a very emotional moment when I finally got there but it was fantastic too.
"I seriously feel like I have overcome something major and if I can help others in a similar position, then that must be worthwhile. Even if the trek to the top has been very very tough."
Six years ago, Mark survived nine cycles of chemotherapy for testicular cancer. Four months ago, he had an operation to remove a malignant tumour in his neck.
In all, he has had six major operations in the last six years to remove tumours which do not respond to chemotherapy. His future remains uncertain.
Yet, defying extraordinary odds, he set out for Africa in a bid to reach the top of the iconic mountain – and raise thousands of pounds for charity.
So far, Mark has raised over 2,250 for Macmillan Cancer Support – with more pledges coming in every day.
His mum Julia says she is looking forward to welcoming her son home at the beginning of December.
She said: "To achieve so much after what he's been through is simply inspirational stuff. Doctors didn't even expect him to survive at the beginning but despite everything Mark remains really optimistic. He is also thrilled with the donations and support he has received so far."
To donate to Mark's campaign visit www.justgiving.com/Mark-Nixon-Kilimanjaro-Nov-2009.
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Friday 25 May 2012
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