A MILITARY veteran from Poole is fundraising following years of ill health and being diagnosed with an incurable form of blood cancer.

Bob Perry, 70, served in the British Army for 13 years: Royal Engineers and Special Air Service, and was then a police officer for 21 years.

After retiring as a detective sergeant, he then spent five years in Iraq and Afghanistan as a law enforcement advisor/mentor, followed by two years as a part-time hostile environment advisor.

(Image: Bob Perry, Submitted) In 2011, Bob started to feel ill and suffered from symptoms like itchy skin, breathlessness and fatigue lead to doctors misdiagnosing him a rare condition known as stiff-person syndrome. 

In 2015, he went to get his wisdom tooth removal and after the operation, he suffered haemorrhage, and doctor advised him to get his blood test check.

After receiving the reports, Bob was diagnosed with Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia (WM), a rare form of blood cancer, with doctors only giving him 10 years to live.

Bob was in Cardiff watching a rugby world cup and missed a call from his doctor. He came back to Dorset and went to the hospital.

He said: “And even on that day, I was really, quite poorly because I couldn't get up the steps to where my seats were. It took me four goes to I had to stop four times before I could get to my seat. I rang the doctor after the game, and he said we think we know what's wrong.

“You've got to come to the hospital. There's a bed waiting for you, and we need to do some more tests.”

(Image: Bob Perry, Submitted) Bob spent eight months in hospital for chemo immunotherapy, a mixture of chemotherapy and immunotherapy.

He said:  "I remember asking my consultant at the time how long I had to live, and he replied that I ‘should get 10 years’."

After 10 years, Bob has been indulging himself in various physical activities to keep himself fit taking part in various fundraising events. 

He said: “Today, I stand here, 10 years later, not just surviving but thriving as I’m as fit as I have been for many years. As a former soldier, detective and now a charity volunteer,  I refused to let my diagnosis define me, and I’m not going anywhere yet.”

To celebrate this milestone, Bob wants to give back to the  team at the Jigsaw Building at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital (oncology/haematology), who supported and cared for him.

In August, he is going to complete three ascents of France’s iconic Mont Ventoux in one day from three different directions, total of 137 km and a combined climb of 4,400 metres.

He is aiming to raise £5,000 for the hospital.

He said: “I am hoping £5,000 will help enhance the Quiet Room in the Jigsaw Building into space where families and relatives can find comfort and sanctuary when having tough conversations.”

To make a donation, visit justgiving.com/page/robert-perry-5