Man's Cancer Diagnosis Fuels Edinburgh Comedy Show

Alan Wake, a 59-year-year-old from Sheffield, received a breast cancer diagnosis in April 2025, a situation he had previously navigated with his wife, Julie, who battled the disease twice. This marked the third time their sons, now in their 20s, had to face a parent's cancer diagnosis. Both Alan and Julie have undergone successful treatment at Sheffield's Weston Park Hospital. Around 400 men in the UK are diagnosed with breast cancer annually.

To raise awareness, Alan is heading to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe with his comedy show, 'Manogram - a man with breast cancer.' He acknowledges the spontaneous nature of this decision, having funded the month-long performance himself. Proceeds from the show will be donated to Weston Park Hospital and Breast Cancer Now. Alan highlights the different experiences men and women face with breast cancer treatment and recovery.

Alan is currently undergoing hormone therapy for the next decade, experiencing side effects such as hot flushes and mood swings. He found humor in his experience, which inspired his 45-minute stand-up routine. After a practice gig, he is preparing for further rehearsals. Cancer charities have expressed gratitude for his fundraising efforts, encouraging regular self-checks using the 'TLC' method: Touch, Look, and check with a GP.