Marathon runner's back breaks 11 times from cancer treatment

David Macartney, a previously fit 51-year-old who completed the London Marathon, experienced a drastic change in his life after being diagnosed with aggressive stage 4 non-Hodgkin lymphoma in early 2022. A lump under his armpit led to a swift cancer pathway and a terrifying diagnosis.

Intensive chemotherapy and a clinical trial at The Christie hospital in Manchester successfully induced remission. However, the treatment's side effects were severe, causing David's back to break in eleven places. He endured significant pain, relied on morphine, and was temporarily unable to move the lower half of his body, requiring two crutches for mobility.

With dedicated physiotherapy and pain management, David gradually rebuilt his physical strength and mental resilience. Demonstrating his progress, he successfully summited Snowdon in November 2025, nearly a year after finishing his treatment. He has also resumed kayaking and aims to cycle again by 2026.

David now lives more deliberately, managing his pain and protecting his energy. He emphasizes that while fear of cancer doesn't disappear, it can be lived alongside. Supportive oncology, as highlighted by Professor Richard Berman, is crucial for helping patients regain independence and quality of life post-treatment.