Ray Paice, a man from Taunton, is sharing his story to raise awareness about prostate cancer, a disease he was diagnosed with despite having almost no obvious symptoms. The only noticeable change Ray experienced was an increased need to urinate. Motivated by recent high-profile prostate cancer cases, he made the crucial decision to get checked.
In late 2024, Ray received his diagnosis: two aggressive tumours on his prostate and evidence of cancer cells in the lymph nodes near his hips. Thankfully, his prognosis was positive. Since January 2025, Ray has been undergoing a rigorous treatment plan that included three months of chemotherapy, completed in April, followed by planned radiotherapy in June.
Highlighting the challenges of early detection, Ray noted that there is currently no reliable screening test for prostate cancer. The commonly used PSA test only indicates whether further investigation may be needed but is not definitive for cancer detection.
READ MORE: The Salt Path Star Gillian Anderson ‘Profoundly Affected’ by the Memoir Behind the Film
READ MORE: Top Swim Coach Rachel Aldington Joins Taunton School to Lead Elite Swimming Programme
Ray is now raising funds by participating in Chris Hoy’s ‘Tour de 4’ cycling event on September 7. This 90-kilometer ride supports Prostate Cancer UK, a charity focused on raising awareness, funding life-saving research, advocating for change, and providing information and support to affected individuals and their families.
He also praises the support from Macmillan Cancer Support, whose local team has helped him through his treatment journey. Both organizations are among the nominated charities benefiting from the Tour de 4 fundraiser.
Despite being an experienced cyclist, Ray finds the upcoming ride a significant challenge due to the impact his treatment has had on his fitness. With just three months to prepare, he is determined to complete the ride and continue fighting cancer through awareness and fundraising.