Support has flooded in for a man who was diagnosed with cancer and told he could have just 12 months to live.
Mike Edwards was described as 'fit and healthy' and dismissed early symptoms after a doctor told him he was suffering heartburn and indigestion.
However the 29-year-old was rushed to A&E some time later after he started to have difficulty swallowing.
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After undergoing a series of tests and having a feeding tube fitted, Mike was diagnosed with a type of cancer called adenocarcinoma in his oesophagus.
His best friend Ashleigh Foster, 28, told the ECHO: "The doctors said it's rare for people under the age of 50 to have [oesophageal cancer.]
"They literally said to him 'it's like getting hit by lightning twice in the same spot on the same day'. That's how they explained it to him."
She added: "We're all trying to be as positive as possible for him. The first goal is to get this feeding tube out - that's what we're aiming for. Then we'll go onto the next thing.
"I've never known a person like Mike. He's the kindest person I've ever met.
"He's so selfless - he will give you the last pound in his pocket. He's always been the same, even now he's thinking about me and his mum and his brother."
After the ECHO shared his story on Facebook and linked to a GoFundMe page thousands has been raised for Mike.
Paul Kenyon donated and said: "So sorry to read about your story. I hope you are able to make some great memories with the money you raise."
Danielle Jones, who also donated, added: "I'm so so sorry to hear this Mike, you're such a sweet genuine guy and do not deserve to be going through this at all. Lots of love buddy."
On Facebook, Jan Poole said: "So sad, too young to suffer this."
Mojos Griffon commented: "I’m praying for a miracle for you Mike Edwards god bless."
Lyn Colebourn added: "Bless him, life can be cruel, let’s hope for a miracle."
While Debbie Lloyd Hughes said: "Cancer seems to be affecting more and more young adults. So bloody unfair. Always seems to affect good people."
Rachel Reid said: "Absolutely devastating for such a young man am praying for you. My dad died of this at 72. Live for today, make lots of memories am thinking of you and your family. "
And Laura Kate commented: "So sad and it’s exactly like reading about my mum who got oesophageal cancer at 54 and was also treated at Clatterbridge.
"Same symptoms and she too was told how unusual it was at her age and how rare it was yet since I’ve seen so many stories the same."
To support Mike and donate to his GoFundMe page visit the website here.
