A Life-Saving Encounter on the Road
In the summer of 2024, a seemingly ordinary taxi ride in Glasgow turned into a life-changing moment for Brian Kelly, a 66-year-old driver from East Ayrshire. During this trip, he picked up Tam Hewitt, a volunteer with Prostate Cancer UK. What began as a routine journey soon evolved into a conversation that would have a lasting impact on Mr. Kelly’s health.
Mr. Hewitt, now 76, shared his insights about the risks associated with prostate cancer and the importance of regular check-ups. This discussion left a strong impression on Mr. Kelly, who later became concerned about his own health. Recalling the advice given during the ride, he decided to consult his GP and request a PSA blood test, even though he was not experiencing any symptoms at the time.
The results of the test led to further medical investigations, which ultimately revealed two sites of prostate cancer, one of which was aggressive. Thanks to early intervention, Mr. Kelly was able to undergo brachytherapy treatment in June 2025, just after his youngest daughter’s graduation. The cancer was detected at stage two, allowing for effective treatment before it could progress further. Within a week of the procedure, he was back at work and continues to feel fit and well.
Mr. Kelly credits Mr. Hewitt for prompting him to take the necessary steps to address his health. However, it wasn’t until another chance encounter in December 2025 that he had the opportunity to properly express his gratitude. This time, Mr. Kelly’s taxi was called to Mr. Hewitt’s home, leading to their unexpected reunion.
“I just shook his hand and said ‘by the way, I just want to thank you for saving my life’,” Mr. Kelly recalled when speaking to the Press Association. He explained how he knew where Mr. Hewitt lived and had previously helped him carry materials into the back of the car. After completing the task, he broke the news to Mr. Hewitt, expressing his heartfelt thanks.
During their conversation, Mr. Kelly learned that Mr. Hewitt had also undergone brachytherapy to treat prostate cancer over 20 years ago. Inspired by this, Mr. Kelly has since made it a point to discuss the importance of PSA tests with passengers who are of a certain age. “Anyone who gets into my car who’s over a certain age, I have the conversation with them. I just throw out, ‘You’re of a certain age, have you had this PSA blood test?’” he said.
Mr. Hewitt is known for his efforts to raise awareness about prostate cancer. He regularly gives talks and organises pop-up stalls in hospitals and other venues to educate others about the disease. Despite being thanked before, he was taken aback by Mr. Kelly’s gesture. “If his treatment and journey works as well as mine, he will be delighted,” he said. “I have been raising awareness for over 20 years and currently average over 50 awareness stands per year before the talks and presentations.”
He added: “Results like this make it all worthwhile, and I’m sure all our volunteers will feel exactly the same.”
Joseph Woollcott, head of health policy at Prostate Cancer UK, praised the story of Mr. Kelly and Mr. Hewitt, highlighting the power of men supporting each other. “Brian and Tam’s story is wonderful, and it shows the power of men talking and looking out for each other,” he said. “I’m so grateful to all our incredibly dedicated volunteers like Tam, who have lifesaving conversations all the time.”
He continued: “One in eight men will get prostate cancer, and your risk doubles if you’re Black, so most of us will know someone living with or after the disease. It’s curable if found early, but it’s also a complex disease that leaves many feeling confused about the right path to take. Men need people like Tam in their corner, and at Prostate Cancer UK we are here to help men at every step of their journey from diagnosis to treatment and with what comes next.”
