(Image: UGC)
A BRADFORD cancer survivor has donated a painting to the hospital that helped save his life.
Nigel Firth, 59, from Low Moor, recently presented his artwork, titled Hope, to Bradford Royal Infirmary (BRI).
The former full-time carer said he wanted the painting to symbolise resilience, optimism and gratitude for patients and staff.
He said: "I'm delighted that the artwork will be displayed at BRI as a symbol of resilience, optimism, and gratitude.
"If it brings a smile to people's faces, I will be very happy...my aim was for people to look at the picture and smile when they are being treated.
"It signifies hope that there will be brighter days ahead."
Cancer diagnosis and treatment
Mr Firth was diagnosed with prostate cancer in December 2022.
He underwent robotic surgery at Bradford Royal Infirmary, where his prostate was removed using the da Vinci surgical robot.
Following ongoing monitoring and a rise in his prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels, he later received radiotherapy treatment at St James's University Hospital in Leeds.
Mr Firth said regular blood tests remain an important part of his life after treatment.
Appeal for men to get checked
Mr Firth has now urged men not to ignore concerns about their health.
He said: "I'd appeal to other men to go and get checked if they have any concerns or worries about their prostate as it's never too early or too late to see your GP.
"So please take care and look after yourselves.
Mr Firth added: "I'd also like to say thank you to the doctors and nurses who treated me...you are remarkable people, doing a remarkable job."
Lifelong love of art
Mr Firth said creativity had been a lifelong passion, with drawing and photography shaping his life.
He credited his sisters for encouraging his artistic interests and paid tribute to his late parents, particularly his mother Ann Firth, who worked for more than 20 years as a maternity nurse at St Luke's Hospital and Bradford Royal Infirmary before later serving as a district nurse.
He also remembered his late father, Jack, who faced incurable prostate cancer with what Mr Firth called humour and resilience.
Matron Jo Taylor with Nigel's artwork.
(Image: Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust)
'A reminder of strength'
Hospital staff welcomed the donation and its message.
Joanne Taylor, surgical matron at Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: "Nigel's painting has been received with gratitude by colleagues here at the Trust and will serve as a reminder of the strength shown by patients facing cancer treatment and the lasting impact of compassionate care."
The painting will be displayed at Bradford Royal Infirmary, where Mr Firth hopes it will comfort and encourage patients facing their own challenges.