BACK at work and feeling good.

That is the news of popular Herefordshire health manager Graham Tarling who found life-saving surgery in America via the Internet, writes LIZ WATKINS.

Graham who was given less than a year to live after being diagnosed as suffering from an inoperable kidney tumour says he is now most upbeat over his future.

He recently returned to Cleveland in Ohio to consult with Dr Peter Novack who, in June was in charge of the 13 hours of risky surgery to remove the tumour.

He was able to confirm that Graham was suffering from lymphoma, which is treatable.

"I have been told I have a 70 per cent chance of beating the disease. That is much better than the news earlier this year that nothing more could be done and I had less than a year to live,'' he said.

Graham has now returned to work full time. "It is great to be back and to feel so well,'' he said.

The NHS paid for his surgery in the USA because it was not available in this country.

But travelling, accommodation and other costs were not and Graham and his wife Jill were facing bills of at least £18,000.

Help from collegues

Health colleagues and friends who had been shocked at the sudden news of Graham's potential fatal illness have already raised more than £11,000 to help with some of the expenses.

Former footballing colleagues in Bristol, where Graham once played for the City club have held matches in support and have contributed more than £3,500 to the fund.

Graham says he is almost overwhelmed with the kindness and support from people throughout Herefordshire and beyond.

While undergoing surgery in America he received more than 600 hits on his computer web site sending him love and best wishes and he has received more than 300 cards of good wishes.

"People really have been fantastic with their support and kindness. My family and myself are so grateful,'' said Graham (seen right).

He has now started chemotherapy treatment every three weeks at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham and says he is coping with it well.

His next check up in Cleveland is planned for just before Christmas and again next May. The costs for Graham and his wife are around £4,000 a trip but he considers it money well spent.

Graham is an assistant director of Herefordshire Community Health Trust and manager of the south Herefordshire locality.