Because prostate cancer runs in his family, Rex regularly monitored his PSA levels.
After a raised test result, further investigations confirmed he had incurable stage four prostate cancer.
Rex underwent chemotherapy but said the treatment took a significant physical toll and he now lives with the side effects of hormone treatment, including intense fatigue.
“I stopped doing a job I love as a GP practice manager,” he said.
“By the time I went through chemotherapy, I couldn’t do the job that was needed.”
Leaving work was one of the biggest practical changes brought about by his diagnosis, although he says his priorities remain firmly focused on his family.
“Sarah and I have always had a strong focus on our boys. We structured our lives to give them the best upbringing we could.”
But while cancer changed his perspective and future plans, he says one of the most important discoveries of his life came years before.