Man discovers he has leukaemia after going to hospital for insect bite

The father of three called 111, and the caller suggested he head to hospital immediately.

After doing a few blood tests for the seemingly small bite, it proved much more serious than the 34-year-old from West Yorkshire realised.

"It's been awful - I wouldn't wish it on anybody.

"If he hadn't have gone in he wouldn't have a clue - he didn't have any other symptoms but some night sweats he'd brushed off.

"He couldn't see his kids at Christmas - he hasn't been able to see one of them that lives in Liverpool since he was diagnosed. We were all ill over Christmas and because his immune system is so weak it was too dangerous for him to see them.

"It's been really tough and terrible to see. He's so strong and getting through it - it would mean the world to us just to be able to help him a little."

The father began chemotherapy at the Haematology department in the Bexley Wing at St James's Hospital.

However, it's going to be a long road to recovery.

The dad is still receiving constant blood and platelet transfusions every day as he need his platelet count to be much higher to to start his next round of chemo.

Joe’s job requires him to implement artificial lawns; however, he cannot work while receiving treatment.

As a result, his fiancée Ellie's mum, came up with the idea of raising funds so the family wouldn’t have to rely solely on her daughter’s income.

In February, the family committed themselves to complete over 10,000 steps every day in an effort to raise money.

Leanne said: "It'll just make things a bit easier for him and his family so he can focus on his health. We don't want him panicking he can't pay the bills.”