In this deeply moving episode, Mark Murphy MBE speaks with Tom Fitton, a serving Apache helicopter pilot in the British Army and author of the powerful memoir Dad’s Diary.  Tom shares his raw, unfiltered experience of being both a father and the partner of someone living with cancer. Drawing on his military training in resilience and discipline, Tom talks candidly about the emotional toll behind the uniform — from keeping a journal, as instilled by army culture, to moments of private heartbreak while out jogging.

This “warts and all” account captures the emotional complexity of supporting a loved one through cancer while trying to stay strong for your family. It’s a powerful listen for anyone touched by cancer — whether as a partner, parent, or supporter.

Key Topics Include:

• The origins of Dad’s Diary and the role of journaling
• The impact of cancer on family life and fatherhood
• Mental health, vulnerability, and resilience in the forces
• Why Tom believes honesty matters in caregiving stories

Buy The Book On Amazon: Dad’s Diary by Tom Fitton

Thank you for listening to this episode If you’d like more information about what we do please visit www.cancersupportsuffolk.co.uk or call us on 01473 211 884. We are based in Ipswich, Suffolk.

Cancer Support Suffolk is passionate about educating and supporting the people of Suffolk and as a registered charity we rely on donations and fundraising to be able to continue our vital work in the community.

This podcast, is the copyright of Cancer Support Suffolk and is produced and managed by Podtalk.co.uk. It is supported by the Suffolk and North East Essex Integrated Care Board.