Top sailor Stevie Dickinson has been diagnosed with cancer.The East End Mini Yacht Club stalwart was diagnosed with neck cancer late last year and underwent surgery overseas.“I was diagnosed with cancer in my neck last August and underwent surgery and my recovery has been very positive so far,” Dickinson told The Royal Gazette. “I’m doing very well actually. But I still have to get an MRI to see whether or not the cancer is growing again.”As well as the physical effects of the disease, Dickinson has also had to come to grips with the emotional side of being diagnosed with cancer.“Sometimes it does get to me, but it is what it is and I just try and take everything as it comes on a very positive note,” he said.The ex-St George’s and Devonshire Colts footballer has received plenty of encouragement from his sailing peers which has helped keep his spirits high.“I have had great support since I’ve been sick and even before,” he said. “This has been very touching and this sport has been fantastic to me.”Dickinson is undoubtedly one of the finest sailors of his generation.He has won an unprecedented 15 Edward Cross Cups and multiple honours competing overseas in the Comets, Lasers and Snipes.Despite his current health condition Dickinson plans to continue sailing this summer.“I definitely plan on sailing because I’m not going to allow this to stop me,” he declared.To help the self-employed welder with medical expenses East End Mini Yacht Club will be staging a benefit football match at Garrison Field on Saturday, beginning at 3pm.All footballers participating in the match have agreed to pay a fee to play while donations can also be made during the event.Proceeds from raffles and food concessions will also go towards Dickinson’s medical expenses.“We are just trying to help Stevie out with his medical expenses,” said East End Mini Yacht Club commodore Patty Washington. “We are trying to help him because he is self -employed and has been out of his job for weeks for treatment.“Stevie has done a lot for the club and we just feel this is a good opportunity to give something back and hopefully others will come out and support this worthy cause as well.”Dickinson added: “Everyone has been very supportive and I am so grateful.”