Overview

• Doctors at Derriford Hospital diagnosed Zack Van Aarde, 41, with stage four oesophageal cancer after an endoscopy performed following a July collapse and vomiting blood.
• He is receiving chemotherapy every two weeks with weekly blood tests and scans to track a reported 6cm tumour and to assess whether surgery becomes viable.
• Zack initially sought GP care in early 2024 for persistent heartburn and indigestion and was treated for presumed acid reflux before the acute emergency prompted further investigation.
• He reports using hyperbaric oxygen therapy, high‑dose intravenous vitamin C and red light therapy alongside chemotherapy, with clinicians advising patients to consult medical experts before pursuing alternative treatments.
• The family’s GoFundMe seeks support while Zack cannot work and he has pledged to run one mile for every £10 donated for the sake of his children, Joshua, 10, and Hannah, 8.