After successful treatment for testicular cancer two years ago, a personal trainer now hopes he can give something back to the NHS by promoting his positive experience.

Chris Brotherton, 38, of Springfield Close in Ongar, was treated at the Princess Alexandra Hospital in Harlow after he was diagnosed with cancer two years ago.

After a successful operation, he began treatment at Barts Hospital in London which continues to monitor his progress.

The instructor for Epping Sports Centre is now a member of the West Essex CCG ‘Sounding Board’, a group of 18 volunteers feeding back public views, ideas and concerns to the NHS to help develop services.

He hopes his work will strengthen community involvement with the NHS and promote a positive message after the cancer treatment he received.

“It was a really tough experience, it was quite a daunting thing,” he said.

“I first went to my GP in Loughton, and he said ‘I think you might have the start of a lump’.

“He got it checked, and they sat me down and said ‘This is what the situation is’.

“They walked it through, they gave me clarity on everything and they made a recommendation.

“I went to Harlow for a couple of weeks, had an operation and got referred to Barts, and that was it… generally speaking, I have had a positive experience from the very first check-up.”

He added: “That is why I want to be involved – [the cancer] could have progressed.

“If it was not for the due diligence of the GP and the checks, it might not have been picked up and it could have been a lot worse.

“Potentially, it works in stages and if things started to spread… but because it was picked up relatively quickly, that fills me with confidence.

“I have had really positive experiences, and I would like to give something back really, and help to generate trust in other people, especially young people who do not go to the doctor.

“You just feel like you are invincible when you are young.

“I am always active, and I am classed as fit, so it is not something you expect for someone like me, but it happened.

“I would like to give something back and spread the positive message - I think we should promote the good things.”

Mr Brotherton is now working with the CCG to raise awareness of exercise as an alternative treatment for conditions like obesity, and he hopes his involvement will make sure NHS decisions are patient-centred.