A HAMPSHIRE grandad fighting an incurable disease claims he is still here thanks to the dedication of medics at a Southampton hospital.

John Andrews, from Testwood, has endured months of chemotherapy and even a bone marrow transplant since diagnosed with multiple myeloma three-and-a-half-years ago.

But while the 66-year-old initially fought off the cancer, it returned last year, meaning yet more treatment.

However, the grandfather-ofeight had no fear about going back into Southampton General Hospital, thanks to the fantastic care he has always received at the hands of consultant haematologist Matthew Jenner and his oncology team.

So while he continues his fight, Mr Andrews wanted to thank those helping him, by nominating Mr Jenner and his team for the Daily Echo’s Hospital Heroes Award.

Their absolute dedication became even more apparent when Mr Andrews underwent his transplant, which meant spending weeks in isolation, unable to move from his room while his immune system recovered.

He also praised the charity work of Mr Jenner who, when not working, helps to raise money for the Daily Echo-backed Red and White appeal to build a day unit for blood cancer patients.

Mr Andrews said: “Being in isolation was a really tough thing to go through, but Mr Jenner and his oncology team made it bearable.

“They offer the most unbelievable care for all their patients and are there whenever you need them.

“Although I have always known that the disease is incurable, I was never scared, I just put my faith in the team and they have been absolutely brilliant.

“I don’t think I would still be here if it wasn’t for Mr Jenner and his team, they just help you deal with everything.”

Daily Echo readers have been nominating anyone employed by the trust, which runs Southampton General Hospital, the Princess Anne Hospital and Countess Mountbatten House, as well as some services at the Royal South Hants Hospital.

Mr Jenner said: “I am honoured to have been put forward for a Hospital Hero award, and I believe the nomination is a reflection of the hard word of the whole myeloma team at the hospital who all put in great efforts to provide a quality service.”

The deadline for nominations has now passed.