Barry Hearn reveals prostate surgery as darts chief inspired by World Championship campaign
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Matchroom president Barry Hearn has revealed he underwent prostate surgery ahead of the World Darts Championship. Hearn, who was chairman of the PDC for almost 20 years, said he was inspired to get checked thanks to a campaign launched by Prostate Cancer UK and Paddy Power.
The BIGGER 180 campaign is raising funds for Prostate Cancer UK during this year's tournament, with Paddy Power donating £1000 for every 180 scored at Alexandra Palace. And Hearn says the initiative prompted him to get checked. "I got myself checked, and two months ago I had a prostate operation, which has been 100% successful," Hearn revealed. "I'm quite health conscious, but that was a nudge I needed. It was the nudge that all men need.
"What does it cost? It don't cost anything. Why wouldn't you? Are you stupid? Do you want to die? It's stupidity not to do something. Sometimes we're busy doing other things. But that was a nudge I needed, just to follow up and say, Do you know what? Got a little problem there? Let's get it sorted.".
Hearn hopes that more men will do the same and he is encouraging them to use Prostate Cancer UK's easy-to-use risk checker so they know their risk of prostate cancer. "As you can see, I still look wonderful!" he added. "The message is simple – don't wait, don’t ignore the signs. Get checked, it could save your life.".
Laura Kerby, Chief Executive of Prostate Cancer UK, said: "With almost half a million pounds raised so far and incredible awareness too, we're thrilled at the success of The BIGGER 180 campaign and are hugely grateful to Paddy Power, the PDC and the players for their brilliant efforts bringing it to life.
