A BULFORD man says the MRI scanner was “key” to his wife’s early diagnosis and has been showing his support to get a second machine to help others.

James Corns wife Rachel was diagnosed with breast and lymph node cancer in February 2018 and is currently undergoing chemotherapy at the hospital.

To raise money for the Stars Appeal’s latest fundraising campaign for a second MRI scanner James completed the Neolithic x-country marathon which follows the Sarsen Trail on Sunday, May 27.

He said: “The treatment she has received has been world class from the all the staff at Salisbury hospital. We wanted to show our appreciation to the hospital and were inspired by the Stars Appeal MRI Scanner campaign.

“The current MRI scanner was key to Rachel’s early diagnosis.”

James is a serving Army officer and Rachel is a Doctor of Physiology and a civil servant for the Ministry of Defence.

He said: “We were posted to Bulford in Summer 2017, we have established many friendships in the area and are proud to support this great local charity.

“A Second MRI scanner will provide high quality images to screen and diagnose multiple illnesses and injuries including caners, heart condition, strokes, brain injuries and bone damage.

“It will benefit people of all ages across Wiltshire, Hampshire, Dorset and local service personnel and families.”

The Neolithic x-country marathon started in Avebury and went through the Vale of Pewsey, Avon Valley and Salisbury Plain before finishing in Bulford.

James set up a Just Giving page, which he says has been kindly supported by friends, family, work colleagues and gym buddies.

James and Rachel have raised about £2,000 (including gift aid).

To support the couple’s fundraising efforts go to justgiving.com/fundraising/james-corns2

Since the charity launched its appeal in November, Journal readers have helped to raise hundreds of thousands of pounds towards this vital equipment, which will cost £1.5 million.

The hospital’s existing scanner is running at full capacity, meaning patients sometimes have to wait longer for essential scans, or travel to hospitals in Bournemouth or Southampton to receive a diagnosis.

About 10,000 people will benefit each year from a second scanner.

More than £750,000 has been raised for the MRI Scanner campaign.