A determined dad who battled testicular cancer has set himself a challenge to cycle 10km every day to raise vital funds for the hospital team who saved his life.

ScotRail communications director David Ross underwent surgery and months of gruelling chemotherapy after being diagnosed with the condition in May last year.

He is bravely sharing his story to raise awareness - and is encouraging other men to check themselves regularly.

David, 35, from Stepps in North Lanarkshire, said: “I noticed a lump and went to my GP who referred me for tests. I thought it would just be a cyst and tried not to worry too much.

“Within three weeks the results were back, and I was devastated to find out it was cancer. Initially, my consultant hoped surgery to remove my right testicle would be enough and I would only need one round of chemotherapy.

“However, I ended up going through three cycles, which were pretty tough.

"I had a bad reaction to the first few chemo sessions and ended up spending a lot of time in hospital. Thankfully they were able to tailor my treatment and I was able to get through the later stages without many complications.”

Glasgow Times: David Ross during chemotherapy David Ross during chemotherapy

He praised the doctors, nurses and support staff at the Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre in Glasgow for helping him through the traumatic experience.

David previously worked as Kezia Dugdale's official spokesman when the then-Scottish Labour leader was a key member of the cross-party Better Together campaign team.

However, he jokes on his Twitter bio that he is "hoping to never again be involved in an election or referendum".

He explains: “The staff at the Beatson are just wonderful and I cannot thank them enough for saving my life.

"My consultant Mr Jeff White went above and beyond and it’s down to his incredible skills and expertise that I’m still here.”

David, who is married to Paula, 35, and is dad to four-year-old Emily and Sophie, two, decided he wanted to give something back to the leading cancer hospital after being given the all-clear.

He decided to get on his bike and cycle 10km every day in the hope of raising around £10,000 to help fund more research and treatment for testicular cancer.

Glasgow Times: David RossDavid Ross

He added: "I realise how incredibly lucky I am and there are people out there who go through far worse.

“I’ve always been pretty fit and active and thought it would be good idea to push myself to the limit by cycling on my exercise bike at home every day throughout August.

"So far, my legs are holding up but I hit a bit of a snag on day two when a pedal fell off my bike. I had to quickly get a replacement.

"I’m committed to completing this and the support I’ve received so far has been overwhelming.

“I’m hopeful I can smash my target and I’m sure I will be in bits by the end of the month, but this is my way of giving something back to all the fantastic staff who saved my life.”

David still attends the hospital every few months for regular check-ups and hopes sharing his story will inspire others to check themselves daily.

More than 88% of men who are diagnosed with testicular cancer will survive if the condition is caught early enough. 

Around 2400 men are diagnosed every year and it is now the most common form of cancer in men aged 15 to 49.

David added: “Early detection is key and if you think something isn’t right, go and get it checked out.

“Having cancer came as a huge shock to me and my family, but I’m fortunate to have come through the other side.

"It was a challenging time, especially losing my hair. My kids were too young to fully understand what was going on. When my hair started falling out I made the decision to shave it off and that’s when it really hit home.

“I’m grateful to all the NHS staff for their support and early intervention. Without them, I wouldn’t be here today.”

To donate, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/david-ross57.