Stephen’s in the saddle to train for the Tour

STEPHEN Macdonald has started training for the Tour de 4 after he was inspired to sign up by founder Sir Chris Hoy.

Like the Olympian, the 62-year-old Doonhamer, who is married with children, has stage four prostate cancer, along with bone cancer too.

And he also believes that a diagnosis does not define a person, and wants to highlight what life with Stage 4 cancer can look like, including the strength, resilience and determination of those affected.

Stephen, who works at Nestle in Carlisle, was diagnosed last June, having initially put his symptoms down to a sciatic nerve problem and over-training.

It was his wife, Kim, who read that the symptoms could also indicate prostate cancer and urged him to see a doctor the same day. A blood test then revealed a PSA level of 299 and a scan confirmed the cancer had spread to his bones.

He’s now on four weekly injections of a hormone suppressant and daily steroids, and said: “I have good days and bad days. I get fatigued easier that I used to, and tiredness is a major side effect.

“I saw Sir Chris Hoy on TV last week and was inspired straight away to be a part of this. It brings together people living with stage four cancer, alongside friends, families and supporters, to ride side by side and raise vital funds.

“All funds raised will go to charities supporting people affected by stage four cancer.”

Cheering him on during the September event will be his very ‘supportive wife’ Kim, who has just had her own cancer battle, having being diagnosed with endometrial and ovarian cancer shortly after Stephen. Thankfully, after a major operation, chemotherapy and radiotherapy, she’s now cancer free.

Stephen has already raised £745 of his £900 goal. Donations can be made at www.gofundme.com/f/my-tour-de-4-2026-fundraiser-to-fight-cancer-tt62a