Paul’s Story

In this special interview*, Rebecca McDonald, Physical Activity Specialist at Medway Council met Paul Dennington, a Medway resident whose resilience and determination have turned a personal health challenge into a powerful campaign for prostate cancer awareness. Read about Paul’s journey, his advice for others, and how you can get involved.

Q: How did your diagnosis influence your next steps in life?
When I was diagnosed with terminal prostate cancer in February 2021, I wasn’t angry or bitter. Everyone reacts differently, and that’s okay. For me, it was about processing the news and deciding to be positive, not just for myself, but for my family and community. I wanted to make the most of my time, leave a mark, and be a role model. That’s how my goals and challenges began.

Q: How important was it for you to set goals?
Setting goals was crucial. My background in sales made me goal-driven, and when I was told I had 5–8 years to live, I set my sights on 10. I refused to be average. Cancer doesn’t like a positive mindset.

Q: Did you take part in physical activity prior to diagnosis?
Yes, I played competitive sport and was health-conscious, but not an endurance athlete. After my diagnosis and during COVID, I avoided gyms and stuck to daily walks. It wasn’t the same as before, but I did what I could.

Q: What has been the hardest part of staying physically active?
Radiotherapy brought fatigue, and hormone therapy affected my sleep and body temperature. I haven’t had a full night’s sleep in over four years. Arthritis also limits what I can do. Despite these challenges, my goals kept me going. Returning to exercise was tough, but muscle memory from previous activity helped.

Q: What has been the most rewarding aspect of physical activity?
I thrive on competition and beating goals. Physical activity helped me lose weight gained during COVID and treatment. More importantly, a positive mindset and staying active have supported my fight against cancer, and studies show both can influence outcomes alongside treatment.

Q: Have you noticed mental, social, and emotional benefits from being active?
Absolutely. My challenges have brought friends and even people I hadn’t seen in 30 years together. The social impact has been overwhelming and motivating. It’s boosted my mental health and helped me spread awareness.

Q: Tell us about your accomplishments so far.
My first goal was 25 million steps in five years, about 14,000 steps a day. I’ve reached 22 million so far. My ‘March Through Life’ challenge took me 588 miles on foot over 36 days, visiting places from my life’s journey. Over 100 people joined me, and we raised £35,000 for Prostate Cancer UK. In total, I’ve raised £123,000 through various events and support from individuals, clubs, and businesses.

Q: What is your main aim with every challenge?
I set big challenges to get attention. The 25 million steps represent one mile for every person in the UK who dies from prostate cancer each year. In fact, according to statistics, every 45 minutes one man dies from prostate cancer in the UK. My aim is to raise funds and awareness. Every person who gets checked because of my story is a life potentially saved.

Q: Who has supported you on your journey?
My wife and children have been amazing, joining events and collecting awards. The support from friends, strangers, and the Medway community has been powerful and energising. It’s brought my family closer and given me strength to keep going.

Q: What advice would you give others facing life changes with a health condition?
Set meaningful goals, big or small. Focus on what’s possible, not what you can’t change. Goals and challenges have helped my mental health and given me positivity. You can let it beat you or make the most of life.

Q: How important is physical activity for those with your diagnosis?
It’s vital. Physical activity improves treatment outcomes and the positivity counts. Don’t fear it, work at your level for energy and strength, physically and mentally. There’s plenty of support in Medway.

Q: How can others get involved with your goals and challenges?
Anyone can join my walks or participate in challenges. The support from Medway residents has been immense. You can contact me at prostatepaul@outlook.com or find me on social media. To donate, please visit my JustGiving page.

*NB This is an edited version of the interview, read the full interview here.