A NEW campaign has launched aimed at highlighting the hopes and possibilities of research through the experiences of people impacted by cancer.

Yorkshire Cancer Research is launching its new campaign for “More Life Without Cancer” today (Monday March 7).

The region is one of the hardest hit in the country, according to Yorkshire Cancer Research, with 30,000 people diagnosed with cancer every year.

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The charity aims to save 2,000 lives in the region each year by funding work to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer.

To help demonstrate the huge progress that has been made thanks to advances in research, Yorkshire Cancer Research, is calling on people in York to explain what “more life” means to them.

A new TV advert is set to be included in the campaign featuring Rob Smith from York, who is supporting the Charity’s drive to save as many lives as possible in the region.

Rob was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2016 and following his diagnosis, he discovered the male Philharmonic Male Voice Choir.

He became part of the group, along with his wife Helen who joined as the choir’s accompanist, and it gave him a new lease of life.

He said he was keen to use the opportunity to “raise awareness of cancer” and the “great strides” that have been made in terms of treatment and support over recent years.

Rob added: “This would not have been possible without the research activities of organisations like Yorkshire Cancer Research.

“I also wanted to highlight the fact that it is possible to have cancer, whilst still enjoying a wonderful and fulfilling life.

“Having a cancer diagnosis shakes the very foundations of who you are as an individual, but one of the key things in my mind was, I'm not ready for my life to end yet.

“There are things that I still want to do, want to achieve and want to enjoy."

Dr Kathryn Scott, Chief Executive at Yorkshire Cancer Research said: “This campaign demonstrates the true impact of cancer research, as told by those who have benefitted first hand.

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“That's why we're inviting people across the region to come together to share their experiences. By getting involved they may inspire others.”

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