BRADFORD Bulls star Tom Holmes has released an important update on his health. 

The popular full back recently revealed the bombshell news that he has been diagnosed with SPTCL – a rare form of cancer which affects less than one per cent of people.

Speaking to the official Bradford Bulls website, Holmes provided a recovery update, where he said: “It’ been six incredibly long and difficult months mentally, physically and even more, emotionally.

“Appointment after appointment, multiple biopsies, bone marrow extractions, multiple pet scans and then a second referral to start it all over again in Manchester.

“Ive finally got a plan going forward, of some sort.

“The results from all these biopsies still shine no light on what's going on to be honest, or a clear indication if it's cancer or not due to the rarity of it. Apparently, the specialists are still unsure and I haven’t had the all clear which is still pretty scary, but with my general health stabilising more, which is a huge positive and some scans showing activity has shrunk more than before, I have been given the go-ahead to try and resume normal life. This is while been closely monitored in the hope things keep improving in my body.

“I’m no closer to knowing what started all of this, what the complete diagnosis is, or if I'm living with cancer. I'm just more reassured that it’s less likely to be malignant at this moment in time and I'm hoping it stays that way.”

Holmes added: “I can't explain how these past months have been for not just myself, but my close friends, and especially my family at home, who have been amazing in every step.

“Home life has been incredibly tough but my partner and kids have been my rock. It's taken so much out of me and I can't  even put into words how I've felt daily and how I'm feeling right now. I've always had a glimmer of hope but the more time went on the harder it became, and it feels like a miracle that things are looking much more positive.

“Regarding my rugby, I’m going to work with the staff to ensure I'm gradually built back into it. I honestly didn't even think I would even be able to get the chance to play again at times. The club have been incredibly supportive throughout all this too so I'm ready to give back the best I can and have a season to remember.

“I best get myself some new boots! Much love.”