text: On the eve of his 40th birthday, John Hartson has reflected on his battle with cancer and admitted his major health scare forced him to stop drinking as much, battle a gambling addiction and become a loyal husband. Hartson was diagnosed with testicular cancer which had spread to his brain and lungs in 2009, at age of 33. In his column in the Scottish Sun, Hartson recalls how he felt 'as good as dead' upon receiving the news. Former Celtic striker John Hartson (centre) has reflected on how cancer made him change his life . Hartson (right) was diagnosed with testicular cancer that had spread to his brain and lungs in 2009 . Hartson admitted to having a gambling problem that he faced up to after beating cancer . 'When anyone goes through a life-changing experience they say it alters their perspective,' Hartson wrote. 'I virtually begged for a second chance at life. 'I’ll be honest with you here and now — I used to be a drinker, a s****er and a gambler. I’d have Sunday afternoons on the sauce when I’d down 11 pints and go home smashed. I was unfaithful to my wife.' The former Luton, Arsenal, West Ham and Celtic striker admitted cancer  forced him to face up to a gambling addiction and he changed his ways as he slowly recovered. 'I would bet on sports I knew nothing about, literally blowing a fortune, as in mine! That addiction almost killed me. 'But it was cancer that forced me to face up to things and come to a realisation I had to stop.' Hartson (left) played for teams such as Arsenal, West Ham and Celtic during his playing career . Hartson says he loves the settled life he has formed for himself as he approaches his 40th birthday . Hartson added that he is now a proud family man who enjoys a settled life. 'I’m older now, though, wiser and more settled in life than I ever thought possible,' Hartson said. 'I’d rather go for a quiet meal with Sarah, have a glass of wine and sit talking about the kids. That’s my life now and I love it.'
target: Ex-Celtic striker John Hartson has opened up about his battle with cancer .
  He was diagnosed with cancer at the age of 33 .
  Hartson spoke of how he has turned his life around since his recovery .