Chris Jappy couldn’t have imagined how his life would be utterly transformed at the start of 2012.
As an outgoing worker in the oil and gas sector, with a love for Mini cars, landscape photography and Aberdeen FC, he was accustomed to travelling offshore and driving around the north-east countryside with a spring in his step.
But during a visit to Newcastle, he collapsed in a shopping mall and subsequently suffered a seizure at home in Stoneywood, resulting in him being diagnosed with a brain tumour at the age of 35.
Six years later, following intensive treatment and an exhausting schedule of clinics, chemotherapy sessions and operations at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Mr Jappy has clearly suffered problems with his mobility and speech.
Yet this indomitable character has refused to let the illness define him or restrict his activities and he is among the 24 men who will take to the catwalk for the Brave shows at the Beach Ballroom on May 11.
He was the inspiration for his wife Lorna’s Ginger Prince anchor, which was part of the 20 for 20 fundraising initiative for the charity, Friends of Anchor, and was situated at Kinnaird Head Lighthouse in Fraserburgh.
And, although he has experienced plenty of difficult times on his journey, he remains determined to give something back to those who have helped him in adversity.
The 41-year-old said: “It was a huge shock, and my initial diagnosis changed my life considerably, because, along with having a brain tumour, I was diagnosed as having epilepsy.
“I was no longer allowed to drive or operate machinery, which was a huge blow to me.
“I am a keen Mini car enthusiast and not being able to drive or work with my cars has been tough, possibly the toughest sacrifice of all.
“However, when my wife isn’t at work, we try and cram in as many adventures as possible and I have travelled far and wide.
“It was also a highlight that my face was painted on the side of Lorna’s anchor and it persuaded one of my friends to dress up as a lookalike when he put on a false beard and bald cap when visiting the Ginger Prince.
“That was great fun and a lot of laughs and it showed the importance and the value of being around family and friends.”
Mr Jappy has been boosted by the care and backing of the medical staff at ARI, which he described as “superb” and “fantastic”.
And he was effusive about the benefits offered by the network of nurses and other health professionals at the Anchor Unit.
He added: “When I was starting my chemotherapy, I was given a theremometer, kindly donated by FoA, to check my temperature regularly and spot any changes which could be an infection.
“Then, when I was staying in Ward 112, and despite being very poorly, it was a nice wee treat to get ice lollies and cakes and these were once again funded by FoA.
“They really are a superb group, and my wife has also spent many days and nights by my bedside sitting in one of the (FoA-funded) recliner chairs, which helped her as well as me.
“I know they provide this service to so many people and that is one of the reasons why I am proud to take part in Brave – to give something back.”
Mr Jappy admitted that his illness had affected his confidence and his sense of independence. But he is continuing his battle with a positive message.
As he said: “Not every day will be good, but there will always be people to help you make it better. And the good days will far outnumber the bad.”
