But most days, thanks to a dedicated team of palliative care workers, he still manages to smile.

“Those four workers who come and see me are worth their weight in gold,” Mr Grimwood, 61, from Ashtonfield, said.

“I don’t know what we would do without them.”

Mr Grimwood was first diagnosed with cancer in October last year. His life has since been turned upside down in the most traumatic way.

“It was devastating when we found out Lennard had cancer and it was completely unexpected because he had never really been sick before,” his wife, Lorraine, said.

But after first being diagnosed with prostate cancer, Mr Grimwood then was given the crushing news that the disease had spread to other parts of his body, including his kidneys and liver.

Mr Grimwood has had palliative care since February.

“My quality of life would not be what it is now without palliative care. They help with my pain management and they pick me up when I’m feeling down,” he said.

“I’ve finished my chemotherapy now and in a few weeks I’ll be off to the doctor to get his final words on how I am.

“But I’m not going to give up.

“You have to fight and give it all you’ve got.”

Mr and Mrs Grimwood want the Maitland community to open its heart and give generously to this year’s annual Friends of Palliative Care Walk-a-Thon and Fun Run at Tocal Agricultural College.

The fundraiser is on Sunday, July 12, at 8.15am, followed by the walk at 9.30am. Entry is $5 for all walkers, $15 for adult runners and $5 for child runners.

For more information or to take part in the event phone 4933 5650 or 4933 1926.