Cancer sufferer needs help with book

HE BATTLED against bone cancer as a young man and has been left with a rare disability.

Now Ipswich man Peter James is planning to write a book about the way he has coped through life in a bid to help others in his position.

But he desperately needs help to get the book written and published and on to the streets to reach the people who need it most.

The 58-year-old from Rope Walk, Ipswich, was born with a disability in his leg, but at the age of just 28 was struck down by a rare form of bone cancer in his arm.

Doctors at Ipswich Hospital performed an operation in a bid to save his life by taking part of the humorous bone.

According to Mr James, only four people in the country have ever had that operation done and doctors at the hospital suggested that he wrote a book detailing his experience.

He has coped with his illness by throwing himself into study, learning about antiques, clocks and watches and even qualified as a goldsmith in 1995.

Languages also interest him and he has been learning Chinese as well.

While many people might have sat back and given up faced with Peter's life, he has tackled it head on.

His home is filled with books about all different subjects and cards of congratulations for his many academic achievements adorn the walls.

He said: "I am very strong person and have had to be as I have not really had a lot of help of anyone.

"I can drive a car and I get about and I do my studying.

"The doctors at the hospital wanted me to write this book because they have no history of anyone with this disability."

The main message that he is hoping to get across to people with a disability, through his book is simply not to give up.

He said: "You can't give up, you must not give up, you just have to keep going.

"People do get their strength from somewhere."

Anyone who can help Mr James write and publish his book should call him on 07899790781.