Triumph through recovery for inspirational Scott Taylor
Last week, Cumberland FA Referee Development Officer Scott Taylor took on his 11th Great North Run just four months after major surgery!
It marked a huge milestone in his recovery following diagnosis of a rare Neuroendocrine tumour on his pancreas in April (this was found by chance, but in hindsight Scott says the clues were there). The diagnosis came after two months of tests at a point when he was in peak physical fitness and finishing off the 2023/24 season with some exciting Step 1 appointments in his refereeing journey.
In May, Scott had most of his pancreas, spleen and gallbladder removed in a 6 hour operation at the Freeman Hospital in Newcastle. However, between his diagnosis and operation, Scott continued to run, and he ran the London Landmarks Half Marathon in 2:00:50 as well as a 23:21 5km Park Run two days before the major surgery.
Following the life changing surgery, Scott has been grateful for the support from his family, friends, and refereeing colleagues across the grassroots football community.
Scott’s post op recovery has not been smooth, having to travel back and forth to the Freeman Hospital several times as well as being continually tested and monitored. Scott commented: “I lost 2 stone (13kg) in weight and had very noticeable muscle loss, particularly in my legs.”
Scott returned to work on a phased return in August and on Sunday 8th September Scott ran his 11th Great North Run in a very respectable 2:36:23!
Scott has five more half marathons planned (Manchester, Cumbrian, Carlisle, Barcelona, and the London Landmarks again) before the first anniversary of his operation on 13th May 2025.
Scott is running to support his own physical and mental health, but also to raise vital funds for Pancreatic Cancer UK.
If you would like to donate to Scott’s fundraising efforts and send him a message of support as he continues his recovery, please visit the below link.
Everyone at Cumberland FA is delighted to see Scott back to fitness following his operation, and would urge anyone worried about their health to seek medical advice at the earliest opportunity.