A journey of resilience and gratitude: David Sheridan’s story
Two years ago, David Sheridan’s life took an unexpected turn when he was diagnosed with prostate cancer. Though he had always been in good health and felt fine, David’s wife encouraged him to visit his GP for a check-up. It was a good thing she did. Despite feeling well, tests revealed the shocking news that he had prostate cancer. Now, as he reflects on his journey, David is filled with gratitude for the support he’s received and is determined to give back.
“I appreciate how lucky I am,” David shares. His diagnosis could have gone unnoticed if not for his wife’s insistence and the proactive steps they took together. David’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of early detection and regular health check-ups, even when everything seems fine.
Taking action: A 20-mile challenge
David’s gratitude inspired him to take action. Recently, he embarked on a 20-mile walk from Church Gresley to Tutbury Castle and back to raise funds for the Derby & Burton Hospitals Charity, specifically to support prostate cancer patients. His determination didn’t go unnoticed—friends, family, and colleagues rallied behind him, contributing to a total of £1,335.
One of David’s biggest supporters was his daughter, who insisted on walking alongside him. Together, they tackled the challenge, step by step. Their efforts were not only a testament to their commitment but also a beacon of hope for others.


As well as his daughter, David was also supported by his wife (pictured) during the walk.
Supporting prostate cancer care
David’s fundraising efforts reflect his desire to make a difference. He has requested that the funds raised go directly to prostate cancer services at the Royal Derby Hospital, helping other patients navigate their treatment journeys. His experience with the Royal Derby Hospital was transformative and he was quick to praise the dedicated healthcare staff who supported him.
“The staff at the Royal Derby Hospital deserve all the help they can get,” David says. “They were fantastic, always smiling and making sure I was OK, even though they had been on their feet all day.”
A message of hope
David’s story is one of resilience, appreciation and giving back. It serves as an inspiring example of how a difficult diagnosis can spark a positive ripple effect, benefitting not only the individual but also the broader community. His journey highlights the importance of early detection, the power of family support, and the incredible work of healthcare professionals.
To those who may be hesitant to seek medical advice, David’s message is clear: “Don’t wait, get checked.”
How you can help
If you have been inspired by David’s journey, please consider supporting Derby & Burton Hospitals charity through donations, the lottery or taking part in one of our events. Every contribution, no matter how small, can make a difference in the lives of patients and the dedicated healthcare teams who care for them.
According to Prostate Cancer UK, men aged 50 or over and men with a family history of prostate cancer, are more at risk and your risk increases as you get older. For more information, please visit Prostate Cancer UK or try their check your risk tool.