From Cancer Diagnosis to Solo Atlantic Crossing in 33ft Yacht

by Magnus Smith 19 Apr 11:49 BST

We join Luke Rossiter's story in a really joyful place; he's just heard that after only two intense chemotherapy cycles (6 weeks) that he is in remission. There are a further two cycles to undergo, to be certain, but by June he ought to be free to attend to his dream.

Earlier in 2026, when diagnosed with stage 3 Hodgkin's Lymphoma, Luke set himself an ambitious goal: to complete a solo Atlantic sailing crossing later in the same year. On an ordinary day this could be considered a physically and mentally challenging undertaking, but he was already dealing with the physically and mentally challenging experience of Escalated BEACOPDac (a particular chemotherapy treatment).

Luke, who is just 36 years old, explains, "Sailing has always been a huge part of my life and this challenge is about turning a difficult diagnosis into something positive with the aim of helping others. It's also about showing my children, George and Olive, that even in the face of serious adversity, it's possible to keep moving forward and pursue meaningful goals."

He therefore decided to raise funds for two charities - Cancer Research UK and REST (Repatriation Services Trust) - which both provide vital support to individuals and families during some of the most difficult times in their lives.

So far, balancing treatment with preparation for the crossing and sharing updates to raise awareness and support has resulted in over £10,000 being raised for the two charities (£5k each) via this website:
www.gofundme.com/f/from-chemotherapy-to-the-atlantic-ocean-sailing-for-hope

Luke made it clear on the fundraising website that he needed a portion of the funds to cover the cost of the crossing, although he already had his own Sigma 33 to use. It has given him something positive to hold onto during treatment, and a goal beyond hospital appointments and chemo cycles. More than anything, it's about one day being able to show his children that strength isn't the absence of fear, but the decision to keep going anyway.

"Right now, everything feels uncertain. There are days filled with fear and worry, but alongside that is a quiet determination and a dream that's helping me focus on the future during the hardest moments," he says.

Sailing solo across the Atlantic will not be easy. He'll be alone at sea for weeks, facing storms, exhaustion, isolation, and the constant reality that any problems or repairs must be handled alone. It's a challenge his has committed to taking on, when body and mind are ready.

"If this journey can raise money for charities that matter, give hope to others and one day allow my children to look back and feel proud, then it already means more than the miles I hope to sail," Luke adds.

The good news of remission probably hasn't sunk in yet, but boat preparation is apparently due to start properly this week on the River Itchen, Southampton.