A CANCER survivor who works as a volunteer for the charity that supported him through his illness is urging other people to offer their time to Macmillan Cancer Support in 2010.

When James Lawrie, 58, was given the shocking news he had prostate cancer, a Macmillan nurse was there to answer his questions, offer support and guide him through all the treatment options.

Two years on, his cancer is in remission and Mr Lawrie now dedicates one or two days a week to raising funds to make sure other cancer patients continue to receive the same support in the future.

He works as a volunteer for Macmillan’s fundraising office in York, and gets involved in everything from rattling collection tins to carrying out corporate research and giving talks about the charity.

He said: “Macmillan was so supportive to me, and I would like to think that other people in my situation would have access to the same support in the future.

“Macmillan’s services are funded by donations and it’s very important that the charity gets the funding it needs.

“Having cancer was quite a troubling and distressing time, but for me it was made a great deal easier by having the benefit of a Macmillan nurse. It was such a big support knowing there was somebody on hand to offer good advice and reassurance.

“She was very knowledgeable and sympathetic, and knew exactly what the prognosis was and what the potential treatments were.” Mr Lawrie, a retired civil engineer who lives in Kirk Hammerton, between York and Harrogate, said being a volunteer was a way he could say thank you to Macmillan.

He said: “Some aspects of it can be challenging, but it’s also very interesting and gives you the chance to make new friends.”

If you would like to find out more about becoming a Macmillan volunteer, phone Roohi Lupton on 01904 756403.