Father-of-five who survived stage 4 cancer takes on Mourne Wall Challenge to support local charity

Rob with his wife Danielle and 5 sons (Alfie, Rueben, Jacob, Carter and Cooper)

A Portstewart father-of-five who once faced a life-threatening stage 4 cancer diagnosis is preparing to take on one of Northern Ireland’s toughest endurance events — as he raises vital funds for a charity that supported him through his journey.

Rob Humphrey will take part in the Mourne Wall Challenge on 15 August 2026 in aid of Cancer Focus Northern Ireland, drawing on his own experience of diagnosis, treatment, and long-term recovery to highlight the importance of support services for people living with cancer.

Shock diagnosis and fight for survival

Rob was just a young father when his life changed dramatically in May 2013. Diagnosed with stage 4 testicular cancer, the disease had already spread to his stomach, chest and lungs.

Rob going through treatment for Stage 4 testicular cancer

Reflecting on that moment, he said:

“I couldn’t believe it. I had two young sons at the time, and I couldn’t wrap my head around the idea I might not be here to watch them grow up. The consultant was very blunt, I needed treatment or I wouldn’t survive.”

His focus quickly turned to survival, undergoing surgery and chemotherapy while trying to shield himself mentally from the enormity of the situation.

“I really had to focus on getting through my surgery and treatment, putting myself in a bubble, but I knew my family were really worried,” he said.

The emotional toll became overwhelming when his young children visited him in hospital.

“My wife Danielle took the boys to visit me in the hospital when I was going through chemotherapy, they were only 3 and 4 years old at the time, and that broke me. I asked her not to bring them back again; I just couldn’t handle it.”

Support, loss and lasting bonds

Rob and friend taking part in the Cancer Focus NI Mourne 7 Summits event in June 2025

During treatment, Rob formed close friendships with two fellow patients undergoing chemotherapy — relationships that would shape his experience of cancer.

“Martin and Ian were fantastic support to have at that time, going through it together made me feel like I wasn’t alone,” he said.

But the reality of cancer hit hard when one of those friends passed away.

“Unfortunately, the chemo wasn’t working for Martin, and a few weeks later he died. That’s when reality really set in.”

Rob and Ian have remained close, meeting every year to remember their friend.

“Ian and I still meet every year, and the first thing we talk about is Martin. Trauma bonds people.”

Long road to remission and hidden impact

Although Rob received the all-clear in December 2013, his journey did not end there. It was not until September 2024 — more than a decade after his diagnosis — that he was officially declared in remission.

The long-term impact of cancer continued to affect him, particularly mentally.

“I always thought I was invincible, but I did not get out unscathed,” he said.

“It was only 11 years after my initial diagnosis that I felt like it was badly affecting my mental health, and I reached out for support and got counselling that totally turned things around.”

That experience has shaped his determination to give back.

“That is why I am so passionate about raising money for Cancer Focus Northern Ireland, the support they offer local people and their families dealing with cancer is so important, and you never know at what stage in the journey you will need it,” he said.

“Although I had amazing family support, and they think they understand, they just don’t. You really need to be with people who understand what you’ve been through.”

Turning recovery into purpose

Rob with his wife Danielle and 5 sons (Alfie, Rueben, Jacob, Carter and Cooper)

Now a father of five, Rob credits fitness and physical challenges as a key part of his recovery, helping him rebuild strength and maintain his health.

Taking on meaningful endurance events has become a powerful motivator.

“I am just so excited to take part in the Mourne Wall Challenge,” he said.

“I had an amazing time at Cancer Focus NI’s Seven Summits in 2025, and I met some fantastic people. It’s really special to take part in an event when everyone is there with a common goal.”

The Mourne Wall Challenge — a demanding trek across the Mourne Mountains — will test participants’ endurance, but for Rob, the cause makes it worthwhile.

“It will be a tough trek, but all for an important cause.”

Encouraging others to step forward

Rob is urging experienced hikers to consider taking part, highlighting both the physical challenge and the unique community spirit of the event.

“I would encourage any experienced hikers to give the challenge a go; there is nothing like the landscapes in the Mournes, we have some of the most beautiful scenery in the world at our back door,” he said.

“Even if you are a solo trekker, it won’t take long to meet like-minded climbers on the route. I’ll see you there.”

Vital support services for cancer patients

Cancer Focus Northern Ireland provides a wide range of support services for individuals and families affected by cancer, including family support, counselling, support groups, specialist bra and swimwear fitting, a nurseline, and patient driving services.

The charity emphasises the importance of fundraising to sustain these services, noting that just £80 can fund one counselling session for someone facing one of the most difficult periods of their life.

The Mourne Wall Challenge, taking place on 15 August 2026, is open to experienced trekkers, with both full and half-distance options available.

To take part or support the initiative, people can sign up via https://cancerfocusni.org/mourne-wall-challenge or contact the events team at events@cancerfocusni.org for more information about the event and fundraising opportunities.

---

At a glance

• Rob Humphrey, a Portstewart father-of-five, is taking on the Mourne Wall Challenge on 15 August 2026

• He was diagnosed with stage 4 testicular cancer in May 2013

• The cancer had spread to his stomach, chest and lungs

• He was given the all-clear in December 2013 but only declared in remission in September 2024

• Rob credits counselling 11 years after diagnosis with helping his mental recovery

• He is raising funds for Cancer Focus Northern Ireland

• The charity provides counselling, family support, support groups and practical services

• £80 funds one counselling session for a cancer patient

• The Mourne Wall Challenge offers full and half-distance routes for experienced trekkers

• Sign-up and information available via the Cancer Focus NI website or events team