Graham Smith counts himself as a lucky man.

When he suspected a problem with his prostate, he was initially told his PSA test was within safe guidelines so not to worry.

He went to a mainland private consultant for a second opinion and he confirmed aggressive prostate cancer.

Graham, from Gunville Road, Newport, had an MRI test, then a biopsy and underwent an operation in March to remove his prostate gland. The 66-year-old former banking and insurance worker has since been given the all-clear.

Isle of Wight County Press: Alan Taylor of the Isle of Wight Prostate Cancer Support Group, Alan Taylor, Graham Smith and Rita Smith.Alan Taylor of the Isle of Wight Prostate Cancer Support Group, Alan Taylor, Graham Smith and Rita Smith. (Image: Newsquest)

He is now in good health and is back enjoying his retirement with his loving wife, Rita.

He is even back volunteering at the Isle of Wight Steam Railway.

Rita said: "This, and the loss of well-known broadcaster Bill Turnbull to the disease, is a wake up call that you need to be testing the progression of your PSA score over three years...it will be the real measure of whether you have a prostate problem.

"If it hadn't been for the IW Prostate Cancer Support Group (PCSG) member Alan Taylor (my guardian angel) we could have lost Graham through ignorance.

"We did not have the knowledge to question but it was only thanks to the number of the PCSG on the bottom of the letter that we followed it up.

"I adore my husband and the thought of him dying of cancer was anathema to me."

The PCSG's extra support proved a lifesaver and now Rita and Graham are urging men to be aware of the need for regular testing over a three-year period.

The support group issues cards to men who attend its regular testing sessions and these help them record the increase in the PSA number (anything over 3 is a cause for concern and further investigation). 

The sessions are held around the Island with the last one of 2022 being held at Totland Bowls Club and hopefully six planned for 2023.

The group stresses it works alongside the NHS testing instead of replacing it and NHS professionals such as phlebotomists are always present at its testing days."

Alan Taylor told the Isle of Wight County Press: "There is so much people don't know and every time I meet a man over the age of 45 I ask him whether he has been tested.

"We also talk to the wives and partners as women in the family are genetically susceptible to breast cancer if their fathers have prostate cancer.

"And women are much more amenable to discussing prostate problems whereas men are prone to be macho or in denial about it."

The thousands of tests carried out at PCSG events cost a lot and the group is present at any number of Island events each year, rattling collection buckets as well as raising awareness.

Isle of Wight County Press: Terry Ramplin at his Christmas lights switch on on Saturday.Terry Ramplin at his Christmas lights switch on on Saturday. (Image: Newsquest)

The group benefitted to the tune of more than £2,000 from last year's Christmas lights at Long Lane, Newport, and Terry Ramplin is collecting for it this year as well.

If you would like to know more about the PCSG visit the website HERE.