WHEN Robin Blythe retired as a Tesco manager at the age of 55 he was looking forward to an active and happy future in Herefordshire.

Instead his first year has been a rollercoaster of health care, with treatment in three hospitals to deal with multiple myloma, cancer of the plasma cells of the blood.

It started with back pain and ended up with stem cell transplantation which has saved his life and put him 80% back on to the road to recovery.

Robin, who lives at Peterstow, knew nothing about stem cells and their use and is impressed, and thankful, for the way they work.

And a loyal group of friends agree with him. They were so moved by his story they planned a garden party to raise funds for the UK Stem Cell Foundation as a way of thank you for his restored health.

It was held in the garden of Dinah Lane at Lea, near Ross-on-Wye, and 130 guests were invited. Many donated items for an auction and they were so generous that £11,000 was raised and sent to the Foundation.

Gill Walker, who helped organise the event with Dinah Lane, Marilyn Scudamore, Sarah Bailey and Ian and Clive Weyman said: "It's not until you nearly lose someone close to you that you realise the importance of advances in medical research and all that goes on behind the scenes to bring these treatments to patients.'' Robin started his treatment with chemotherapy at Hereford County Hospital and in May went into hospital in Bristol where his own cells were harvested.

He had members of his own family who were suitable donors but, because he was otherwise a fit person, his own were chosen.

Half of them were transplanted into his body - the others frozen and saved in case they are needed again - at a hospital in Bath 12 weeks ago. He was in isolation for four weeks and returned to his home in July.

"I am now quite well, and regaining my strength,'' said Robin, who remains on medication while the healing process continues.

Through his illness Robin has learned much about current and potential stem cell treatment and is convinced it is the medical technology of the future.

Much research work is being carried out and there is optimism that it will one day be used to relieve other serious conditions such as Alzheimers and Parkinsons.

David Macauley, chief executive of UK Stem Cell Foundation, said they were delighted to receive the £11,000 donation raised by Robin's friends. "We are grateful also for their part in helping others better understand stem cell techniques.

"It is important that people recognise that stem cell treatments are not only a hope for the future, but are used successfully in practice today. It is always rewarding to meet those who have been inspired to support future applications,'' he said.

The Foundation exists to support the advance of pioneering stem cell research into medical practice. For more information visit www.ukscf.org.