A man who has battled cancer for 20 years has undergone life-changing surgery.

Only weeks ago, Michael Cumbers was racked with pain and unable to sit up or stand. Now, in an incredible transformation, the 59-year-old bus driver is back behind the wheel of his car and contemplating a return to work.

And he and his wife Hilary, of Browfield Terrace in Silsden, have paid a glowing tribute to Manorlands hospice in Oxenhope for its part in turning around his life. Mr Cumbers spent about ten days for pain management in the Sue Ryder hospice and thanks to contact made by staff there, subsequently had an operation at Leeds General Infirmary.

During the procedure, a fortnight ago, a large chunk of tumour was removed and metal rods inserted in his back.

Although the cancer is not cured, the couple’s future has taken on a completely new look. “He’s doing absolutely brilliantly now – he’s thin and quite weak but can walk and drive the car,” said Mrs Cumbers, 57, a teacher at University Academy Keighley. “Michael has got a new lease of life but it has changed my life as well and if it hadn’t have been for the wonderful care provided at Manorlands and extra mile they go to, this just wouldn’t have happened.”

Mr Cumbers’ cancer began in his testicles but by the time it was diagnosed had spread to his stomach. Over the years he has undergone at least half a dozen major operations and had chemotherapy and radiography.

“Last year the tumour had come back and was eating into his spine,” said Mrs Cumbers. “No one could do anything and his back was going to collapse. Painkillers were having no effect.

“He has an aversion to hospitals, having spent so much time in them, and when Manorlands was suggested he at first said no. But as his condition worsened he was crawling and couldn’t sit or stand up, so he agreed to go into Manorlands about four weeks ago.”

She said all the staff were wonderful throughout his stay, and even after he had left, Dr Yousef Adcock – senior palliative medicine registrar – rang daily to check how he was.

“People always had the time to talk to Michael and whatever you want they make you feel comfortable,” she said.

“At Manorlands Dr Adcock made a point of coming when I was there so I could hear exactly what was happening.”

Following his latest surgery, Mr Cumbers hopes to be back at work – with Transdev Keighley & District – as soon as September.”