Python donates £5k to help boy with rare cancer
MONTY Python star Eric Idle has made a £5,000 donation to help a schoolboy suffering from a rare form of bone cancer.
Nine-year-old Alex Goodwin, son of Warwickshire Police firearms and traffic officer Jeff, was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma in his right leg in June this year.
He has begun pioneering treatment at a hospital in Kansas, USA, and thousands of pounds has been raised by supporters.
Idle posted a message on the family’s fundraising page saying “much love and best fishes to you Alexander!”
Actress Bo Derek has also tweeted her support for Alex.
In November, his family was told the cancer had spread, which reduced his chances of survival and the treatment offers available on the NHS.
The youngster is getting the vital treatment after a £120,000 fundraising target was reached.
More than £50,000 was donated via Just Giving with the rest from a bene- factor who wanted to remain anonymous.
His treatment in the the United States, includes the resection of his right femur, hip replacement surgery and replacing his femur with a prosthesis that can be lengthened as he grows.
He will also have appropriate radiotherapy if required.
Comedian Idle contributed to a target of £20,000 for Alex’s rehabilitation and to enrich his life through childhood and beyond as a cancer survivor.
So far, £10,781 has been raised by 130 backers.
Throughout his ordeal, Alex has regularly updated his 7,000 Twitter followers with messages of hope.
His dad Jeff said: “He’s more concerned about the plight of other people.
“Sometimes I think he
Much love and best fishes to you Alexander! Eric Idle
forgets how poorly he is.”
His family spoke about the effect of all the support they have received in the past year.
Jeff said: “We’re just overwhelmed by the sheer volume of support.
“It’s so touching that there is such huge support from other emergency services.”