Andy O’Sullivan celebrates being cancer clear for 2020

Prolific event organiser and race commentator Andy O’Sullivan MBE is celebrating the start of 2020 with the brilliant news that he is cancer clear.

Having previously fought bladder cancer in 2016, the former policeman, 66, underwent extensive surgery last September to remove his bladder and prostate.

He had been experiencing extreme discomfort and pain since his final treatment for cancer in January 2019, with an MRI scan showing water retention and a swollen prostate.

As a result of the immense agony he was in, Andy, of Rochdale, was then given a catheter and a cocktail of drugs for pain relief – none of which helped much – resulting in the surgery.

Andy has organised over 670 races for numerous charitable causes since 1983, many named after people who contributed enormously to the sport.

Due to his recent poor health, he has taken a back seat from running, but hopes to return soon.

Speaking to Rochdale Online after his latest appointment, Andy said: “I am now cancer clear, and back to my cheeky, cheery self.

“The Royal Oldham Hospital don’t need to see me again now until April when they will check for any changes via MRI.

“I hope to start back training again very soon!”

 

 

Andy’s long-running career started in July 1982 when, along with 2,000 others, Andy completed the ‘Rochdale Observer 7 Fun Run’, raising £500 for Rochdale Disabled Scouts.

In 1991, Andy received the BEM for services to the police and charities, which was followed with an MBE for services to athletics and charities 13 years later in 2004. 

He even carried the Olympic torch in London that year prior to the Athens Olympics, together with some of the most famous people in the UK.

Andy added: “I wish to thank all who have helped during this traumatic time. The Company Shop at Middleton have been so supportive of my races.”