Rex Mackrill, 65, from Tetbury, Gloucestershire, has been diagnosed with incurable stage four prostate cancer and is reflecting on the life lessons his diagnosis has prompted him to consider.
Mackrill underwent chemotherapy following his diagnosis, though he reports the treatment imposed considerable physical demands. He subsequently left his position as a GP practice manager due to the side effects of ongoing hormone treatment, which include severe fatigue. Despite the practical changes brought about by his cancer diagnosis, Mackrill states that his focus on family relationships has remained his primary concern.
Beyond his cancer journey, Mackrill has identified what he describes as a more significant discovery from earlier in his life. For much of his adult years, he experienced persistent anxiety without understanding its source. At age 60, a life coach identified that he appeared to “shut down” when certain topics arose and suggested he had experienced trauma. Mackrill subsequently sought professional support and received a diagnosis of PTSD, which he attributes to childhood abuse. According to research referenced in the article, around one in 10 people in the UK are expected to experience PTSD at some point in their lives.
Mackrill received treatment through Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing therapy, which he credits with substantially altering his quality of life. He has also participated in end-of-life planning sessions at Longfield Hospice in Minchinhampton. Sarah Mimmack, director of care at the hospice, noted that many families avoid discussions about death due to discomfort, though advance planning can help reduce uncertainty for loved ones.
As he faces terminal illness, Mackrill has shifted his focus toward appreciating present moments and preparing for those he will leave behind. He encourages others to seek help for unresolved trauma and to find joy in everyday experiences.
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