Mick Whitehouse passed away on Wednesday 1st March, 2023. He was 62.
Many of us were aware that Mick was seriously ill, and as a mark of respect we re-produce his very brave words posted on Facebook just 29 days before his death.
"Shipmates both old and new and friends, Thank you to everyone for their responses regarding health and the importance of pushing to get a quick diagnosis. I was humbled at the number of responses. Thank you all.
Unfortunately the gangway had already been removed and I was adrift by just a couple of months in making the possibility of an actual cure rather than palliative treatment and have now been diagnosed with Stage 4 Cancer (Terminal) ETD unknown.
There lies the importance of a few major factors.
1. Family Medical History and making sure your medical records are 100% accurate and how important that is.
2. If after diagnosis and treatment it isn't working, push for further testing.
3. You are entitled to a second or third opinion which your Doctor must request.
4. If it's slow in coming go through the "PALS" team. Every hospital has one (basically a hospital ombudsman service).
Peeps, it's been an honour serving, either for you, or with you and if I could turn back time, would I do it again? Hell, YES in a heartbeat.
I have met some very special people and long lasting friends and know even though we may not have seen each other in years within 5 minutes we'd be at the bar getting shedded, as if it was yesterday."
RIP Mick - an exceptional Shipmate.
Mick served on the Mighty Manch in the late eighties.
