A father of four from Kinver has been given less than two years to live after a routine eye test detected an aggressive cancer. Jez Bridges, 59, visited Specsavers in Stourbridge for a standard check-up, where a tiny speck was identified in his eye. Further tests revealed it was Uveal (Ocular) Melanoma, an extremely rare form of the disease.
Devastating diagnosis
Jez and his family, including his wife, two daughters, and two sons, were later told the cancer had spread to his liver and is now terminal. His sister, Justine Owens, said: "Jez's diagnosis has changed the lives of his entire family. Overnight, our future went from being full of plans, celebrations, and family milestones to living with uncertainty and fear."
Treatment journey
After the discovery, Jez was treated at Clatterbridge Cancer Centre in Liverpool using Proton Radiotherapy. While he will lose sight in his eye, the family initially believed the cancer was controlled. However, in March, they received the devastating news that it had metastasised to his liver.
Fundraising for hope
With no cure available, the family launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise £200,000 for Chemosaturation, a private treatment not funded by the NHS. Each session costs around £40,000, and approximately five sessions are needed. By June 3, more than £44,000 had been raised.
Justine added: "Every donation, no matter the size, means so much more than just financial support. It reminds us that we are not facing this battle alone. The kindness, generosity, and belief in helping Jez access treatment are giving our family strength during the most difficult time of our lives."
The family hopes the treatment will prolong Jez's life, allowing him to see future milestones such as weddings and grandchildren. The community has rallied together, offering support and donations to help the Bridges family fight this battle.
