Rugby legend Sir Ian McGeechan has revealed he has been diagnosed with prostate cancer.
The 78-year-old former Scotland and British and Irish Lions coach has recently completed a six-week course of radiotherapy.
"I have to wait six weeks then have scans and a review of how effective the treatment has been," McGeechan revealed.
McGeechan said the problem first emerged just over a year ago when he began experiencing unusual symptoms.
Rugby legend Sir Ian McGeechan has revealed he has been diagnosed with prostate cancer
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"I started getting up to go to the loo in the middle of the night, which I have never done before," he explained.
His wife Judy encouraged him to get a blood test, which showed his PSA (prostate-specific antigen) was higher than normal.
Further tests, including MRI scans and biopsies, confirmed the cancer diagnosis.
McGeechan received treatment at the Bexley Cancer Wing at St James's Hospital in Leeds.
He praised the NHS staff who cared for him during his treatment.
"The staff of the Bexley Cancer Wing at St James's Hospital in Leeds have been absolutely brilliant," he said.
His doctor is a Northern Irishman and rugby enthusiast who recognised the Scottish legend.
The treatment involved targeting the cancer with radiotherapy using laser alignment.
McGeechan is using his diagnosis to raise awareness about prostate cancer testing.
"I don't want to make a big thing of it, but it is important to get the message out about urging people to go and get tested," he said.
He particularly emphasised the importance for younger men.
"What I would say to people is don't back off it. It is a blood test, it is not what you always think. Just get it done."
Sir Ian McGeechan has remained upbeat despite his cancer diagnosis
PA
McGeechan enjoyed a distinguished rugby career, winning 32 caps for Scotland as a fly-half or centre.
He toured with the Lions as a player in 1974 and 1977, before coaching them on four tours.
Under his leadership, the Lions secured memorable series victories in 1989 and 1997.
He also guided Scotland to the Five Nations Grand Slam in 1990.
McGeechan currently serves as consultant director of rugby at Doncaster Knights, mentoring head coach Joe Ford.
Sir Ian McGeechan was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2010
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He informed the players about his diagnosis before starting treatment.
"I have told the players here before the treatment started because there would be times when I would not be around for meetings or on the training field with them," he explained.
Despite his treatment, McGeechan has continued to attend training sessions when possible.
Despite his diagnosis, McGeechan maintains a positive outlook and determination to stay active.
"You just deal with it and get on with it," he remarked, crediting his wife Judy for her support.
He continues to prioritise his fitness, still attempting to run at training sessions.
"I am still determined to do a little bit of running out there," he said, demonstrating the resilience that defined his illustrious career.
