In The News

Crossword setter uses puzzle to reveal he is dying

Crossword setter uses puzzle to reveal he is dying

A LEADING crossword setter has used one of his puzzles to reveal he is dying of cancer.

The Reverend John Graham, whose puzzles appear in The Guardian, uses the pseudonym Araucaria — which is the Latin name for the monkey puzzle tree.

When his puzzle appeared in the January 11 edition of the newspaper (see below), Mr. Graham had included special instructions, which stated: “Araucaria has 18 down of the 19, which is being treated with 13 15”.

Those completing the puzzle discovered that the answers were: cancer, oesophagus and palliative care.

Other clues produced the answers: Macmillan, nurse, stent, endoscopy and sunset.

Mr. Graham, who has been creating crosswords for more than 50 years, said using one of his puzzles to reveal his medical condition seemed the natural thing to do. He added he was very touched by the reaction of people to the news.

The 91-year-old said it is unclear how long he has to live but he intends to continue creating crossword puzzles for as long as he can.

To view the crossword in which Araucaria revealed his news, click here.

To see an interview with the Reverend John Graham, which was recorded by The Guardian, click here.

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