A YOUNG man battling blood cancer has said "I’m only 28 and not ready to die just yet” as he appeals for people to become a stem cell donor and potentially save his life.

Sheldon Donovan, a supermarket mananger from Malvern, was diagnosed with Hodgkin Lymphoma in 2016.

He said: “In 2016 I remember visiting the doctor because I wasn’t feeling very well. I’m not usually one to go to the doctor, but I knew I couldn’t delay it any longer as my body just didn’t feel right.

“I went to the GP and shortly after, I was admitted into hospital. My results came back and I was diagnosed with Hodgkin Lymphoma. It suddenly dawned on me that I had cancer. They are very surreal words to hear especially when they are directed at you.

“All I knew was that I was going to fight it with all my might. First, I checked to see if my brother was a (stem cell) match, but sadly he wasn’t.

“I underwent six months of chemotherapy. I was only 24 at the time of my diagnosis and I have to say, I did, at times feel a little sorry for myself.

“I was treated in the Cardiff hospital's cancer unit, who arranged for me to meet my idol, Ed Sheeran.

Sheldon went into remission in 2017. He said “When you go into remission, you daren’t forget to appreciate the small things in life. I was so happy to get back to spending time with my partner. I even went so far as to start thinking again about pursuing my hobby as a TV and film extra.”

But Sheldon relapsed 18 months later. After more rounds of chemotherapy and a stem cell operation, the cancer returned for the second time.

Now, he and blood cancer charty DKMS are urging people to become a stem cell donor.

Sheldon said: “I know that my medical team has done everything they could have done for me. All treatment has been unsuccessful and I’ve relapsed twice, so I really am down to my last chance now. It’s simple, I want a second chance of life which means relying on the help of a stranger. I’ve teamed up with DKMS so they can help me find that person. I have so much more living to do and dreams to fulfil. I adore my partner and our recent addition to our household - our Labradoodle, Charlie.

“Please give me a chance - I’m only 28 and not ready to die just yet.”

Register for a home swab kit at dkms.org.uk