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Preston musician Reg Kielty is holding a charity gig for Prostate Cancer UK, following his own diagnosis in 2020.
Singer/songwriter Reg is well-known in the city’s music scene, where he fronts blues and rock band The Truebloods. A qualified psychotherapist, Reg has focused exclusively on music since his diagnosis and treatment.
He had the idea for the gig – which will take place at The Continental in Broadgate – after attending Raise the Roof, a one-off charity concert organised by Jools Holland at the Albert Hall in 2022.
Speaking about his diagnosis, Reg sad: “When I found out I had cancer of the prostate gland, any awareness of the factual things about it was completely beyond me. I was still trying to come to terms with the shock of the diagnosis and more importantly what it meant for me and my family.
“The medical specialists at Royal Preston Hospital and Chorley and South Ribble Hospital were excellent and made sure I was fully informed. They told me the cancer was fortunately confined to the prostate gland itself and had not spread to other parts of my body. It was therefore completely treatable which was a relief.
“Following consideration of my options I decided to undergo radical radiotherapy at Rosemere
Cancer Centre, completing my treatment in August 2021. Six-monthly blood tests and follow ups by the oncology department have so far been reassuring, and I have been able to continue with day-to-day life.
“My professional background as a psychotherapist helped me to a great extent in understanding the psychological impact of such a diagnosis. Also, just as importantly, how it affects not only men but their loved ones too, and how support is crucial across the whole family at such times.”
According to national charity Prostate Cancer UK, cancer of the prostate is the most common cancer in men. More than 52,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every year on average – that’s 144 men every day. Every 45 minutes one man dies from prostate cancer, adding up to 12,000 men every year. One in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime, and this increases to one in four for black men. Around 490,000 men are living with and after prostate cancer.
As well as raising funds for charity, Reg is on a mission to raise awareness of prostate cancer and the benefits of early detection.
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Reg said: “Of course, as with all cancers the importance of these statistics is the question of what if anything one can do about it – and the key role of prevention and cure. Most men don’t take much notice until there is a problem with their ‘plumbing’ or ‘waterworks’ and there is always the shame factor of what the diagnostic tests might entail.
“Urinary problems such as slow flow and having to go for a pee several times a night can be mild and happen over many years. They may be a sign of a benign problem rather than prostate cancer, but it’s worth checking if you’re over 50 years of age. If there is a history of prostate cancer in your family, it is also a good idea to get it checked out as your genetic risk could also be a factor.
“The key takeaway here is early detection because this will ultimately lead to as better outcome for you and your family. As there is currently no national screening programme for the disease, it is crucial that men take charge of their health, and that we support charities like Prostate Cancer UK to lobby for better early detection of this awful disease.”
Serena Evans, Head of Events and Community Fundraising at Prostate Cancer UK, said: “Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men, with one in eight getting diagnosed. We are so grateful for the dedication of Reg Kielty and The Truebloods band along with so many others across the UK, who help Prostate Cancer UK fund lifesaving research to stop this disease damaging the lives of men and their loved ones.
“Everyone who supports Prostate Cancer UK has their own story, some heart-breaking and others heart-warming, but all united with a common aim to see a world where men’s lives are not limited by prostate cancer. We thank Reg Kielty for going that extra mile and helping to save men’s lives.”
Reg added: “If this event can lead to just one man taking notice and getting checked out for their and their family’s sake – it will be worth it.”
The charity gig with headliners The Truebloods will take place at The Continental, in South Meadow Lane on Saturday 24 August.
Tickets are £12 from Skiddle or £15 on the door.
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