Oxford United fan walks 125 miles to final game for bladder cancer charity
Neil McManus is set to complete his journey from the Kassam Stadium to Millwall in time for kick-off
A lifelong Oxford United fan has been walking 125 miles to raise awareness of bladder cancer, after fighting the disease himself.
Neil McManus, from Drayton near Abingdon, set off from the Kassam Stadium on Monday and has been making his way to Millwall FC’s ground, The Den, ahead of Oxford’s final game of the season.
The five-day journey, following the Thames Path into London, is the equivalent of five consecutive marathons and is in aid of Fight Bladder Cancer.
Speaking to Greatest Hits Radio during the challenge, Mr McManus said the walk has, at times, proved difficult.
“It’s been a challenge,” he said. “I'm little bit stiff and we've had two different seasons - yesterday was baking hot and I’ve got a burnt head, and today is pretty chilly and a bit cold and rainy.”
Mr McManus, who has been a U’s boxholder for the last 10 years, was diagnosed with bladder cancer in December 2024.
“It was a complete shock to me,” he said. “I’d never even heard of bladder cancer before being diagnosed.”
“Within about two or three weeks, I was having an operation to have a tumour removed and chemotherapy,” he added.
“Thankfully, in January this year, I was given the all clear. So there’s no sad story here – it’s more about raising awareness.”
He is now urging others to recognise the warning signs of the disease, including blood in their urine and needing to urinate more frequently.
“If you ever experience any of the symptoms, it’s worth just getting checked out by your GP,” he said.
Mr McManus said Fight Bladder Cancer provided vital support during his treatment.
“They were really good in terms of providing support, literature, and also a peer group that enabled me to ask lots of questions,” he said.
The idea for the challenge, he admitted, came in unusual circumstances.
“What actually drove me to it was probably two bottles of red wine on New Year’s Eve,” he joked. “I announced to a room full of people that I was going to walk to the final game of the season!”
Despite the sore legs, he said support from friends and family on different parts of the journey has helped keep him going.
The fundraiser has so far raised more than £4,000, with a the aim of at least £5,000.
“I’d love to smash that target completely,” he said.
He is expected to arrive at The Den in time for Oxford United’s final Championship game before dropping to League One next season.