Eleanor and golfer John face their greatest opponent

After this my greatest passion has undoubtedly been golf. Eleanor’s diagnosis with cancer came as a major shock to both me and my family.

That dreaded phone call has changed life so much for us. As we proceed through life we come against many challenges – I have been no different.

But suddenly they all appear very insignificant as to the great challenge that now confronts our family. We know we are not alone and that there are many other people so many are experiencing this dreadful diagnosis which affects the entire family.

Golf has always given me the opportunity to escape the day to day pressures of life. I have enjoyed many a battle on the fairways and greens of courses throughout the region.

At 66 and with a handicap of six I am still up for a challenge on the course. But this is a very different challenge and perhaps the greatest opponent that my family and I have ever faced.

To see the person that I love so much experiencing this difficult journey breaks my heart – but I must be strong in the face of adversity and support her in every way I can.

When confronted with Eleanor’s diagnosis I was determined that I could also help other people in the same situation. Cancer Choices, an independent and patient led charity, provides holistic support, information and advice to cancer patients, families and carers.

They are in a position to help others in the same situation as Eleanor and my family.

For that reason I have taken it upon myself to help support them in organising a Golf Classic in my wife’s name at Brown Trout Golf and Country Inn on Friday, September 3.

I am calling upon all golfers in the Ballymoney, Colearaine, Portrush, Castlerock and surrounding areas to reach for their clubs and make the effort to put forward a four ball for this event.

At only 5 per person this is a modest fee that will potentially make a big difference to those affected by cancer. Dessie Davison is in charge of the time sheet and he can be contacted on 07792010529 to arrange a tee time.

We are also holding a raffle and sheets will be available on the day and at 1 per line you will have the chance to win a range of fantastic prizes including four balls at Royal Portrush and Dungannon Golf Club.

Cancer Choices is also organising a health event in Brown Trout Inn from 2-7pm and this will include health checks (cholesterol, blood pressure etc), cancer information and advice, taster sessions of complementary therapies and much more.

In finishing I would again appeal to everyone to support this worthy event. If this can contribute to saving only one life then it will be worth it all. I would like to thank everyone who has made this event possible and I would particularly like to thank all of our sponsors.

I would like to dedicate this story Madeline, Jacqueline and Fergal of Cancer Choices, Ryan, Callan, Miss Ellie Brewster and all families and carers who support people with cancer. And to the most important person in my life – my beautiful wife Eleanor - I will always love you.

John Arthur.