At 70, Steve Wakeland from Milton Keynes was the picture of health — a dedicated cyclist and father who once tackled stages of the Tour de France. But in 2023, subtle symptoms signaled a serious health issue that even his fitness couldn’t shield him from: aggressive prostate cancer.
Frequent night-time bathroom trips and the urgent need to stop mid-ride during a 400-mile cycling event in Spain were enough to prompt Steve to get a PSA (prostate-specific antigen) test. The results came back high. By Christmas that year, he received the diagnosis: advanced prostate cancer.
Since then, Steve has undergone hormone therapy, radiotherapy, and spinal surgery. Despite the challenges, he’s committed to spreading awareness — and pushing his body again. This summer, Steve is riding 90 kilometers with his sons Tom and Richard in Chris Hoy’s Tour De 4 to raise money for Prostate Cancer UK.
“This ride would have been easy once,” Steve said. “Now it’s a challenge — but an important one.”
Steve’s son Tom has also launched a GoFundMe to support the cause, recognizing that early detection is key:
“Thankfully, my dad caught it in time. Not everyone is that lucky. If you’re experiencing symptoms like frequent urination or blood in your urine, don’t ignore them. Early checks can save lives.”
Currently, their fundraiser has gathered over £630 of its £800 goal, and Steve continues volunteering with local prostate cancer support and GP steering groups to help other men recognize the signs.
Key Message: Even the fittest men can face prostate cancer. Pay attention to symptoms — early detection makes all the difference.
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