AN OLYMPIC athlete was devastated to discover he had cancer.

Derek Nixon of Widnes was only 34, married with two young daughters.

He won two gold, a silver and bronze medals, competing in javelin, disc, shot and 100m at the special olympics in Los Angeles.

He was selected for 'Les Autres' after having two benign tumours removed behind his knee when he was younger.

Suddenly, he had to have a leg amputated - doctors warned he had only weeks to live.

Couragous Derek was determined not to give up hope.

Thanks to Halton Haven Hospice, he was able to share his last eight months with his family.

This week, seven years after his death, his widow, Carole spoke for the first time about her husband's brave battle.

She said: "I nursed him for as long as I could but it became very difficult with pain control.

"I don't think we could have got through it if it wasn't for Halton Haven. The staff were brilliant.

"It was very homely. Derek had his own private room and bathroom.

"He really looked forward to the children coming in. We were able to visit at any time. It was the next best thing to him being at home."

Carole is so grateful to the haven for the tender loving care and support they gave her husband, she has vowed to do all she can to help them raise funds.

She has been appointed lottery manager, to run a new Super Draw 500, starting in September.

"I would like to show my appreciation for all the haven did for us," said Carole. "I feel confident that this Super Draw will secure the haven's future. I want it to be here for other families who may need it."

A memorial garden has already been dedicated to Derek. His daughters presented Coronation Street star Helen Worth with a bouquet when she opened it.

Carole said she treasures all the happy memories they shared together at the haven.

"We had the time to discuss the dreams we shared for the children," said Carole.

"It was very precious. We were able to talk about things together as though we were at home."

Carole is keen to stress that it is not all doom and gloom at the hospice.

"It is a place to come and live. There is lots of fun and laughter."

She recalled how their daughters, Heather, five and Emma, 11 used to bring in their birthday presents to show their dad.

"I remember one day they scootered past his room. He was thrilled to bits.

"The haven staff got very attached to him because he was so young. I don't think I could have coped without them."

Anyone interested in joining the Super Draw for £1 a week, or becoming a canvasser, can contact Carole Nixon on 01928 712728 or (evenings) 0151-495 2156.

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