Commonwealth judo star Jamie dies at the age of 26
ACOMMONWEALTH judo star who was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour has died at the age of 26.
Jamie MacDonald, from Maesteg, was described as a “talented, humble and selfless” person who helped others in their fights against cancer.
His younger brother Luke posted on Facebook on Sunday: “Today is by far the worst day of my life.
“The feeling of losing not just a brother but a role model and best friend is indescribable and I’m gonna miss you more than words could ever explain.”
Dozens of tributes have been posted on social media to the talented sportsman.
British Judo tweeted: “Everyone at British Judo would like to extend our deepest condolences to Jamie MacDonald’s family and friends after he passed away following a battle with cancer. RIP Jamie.”
Jamie had started a new job after graduating from Cardiff University when he started experiencing headaches more than two years ago.
He said he put them down to a change in environment and sitting in front of a computer screen all day.
After experiencing pins and needles, he was taken to A&E where a CT scan revealed he had a brain tumour.
The inoperable tumour – which he named “Timmy” after the South Park character – did reduce in size by 20% following chemotherapy and radiotherapy. But he lost his battle with the disease on Sunday afternoon.
As well as fighting the condition himself, Jamie also supported Cancer Research UK and helped raise money in a bid to improve treatments.
Ruth Amies, Cancer Research UK’s spokesperson for Wales, said: “Jamie was an extraordinary individual who was committed to helping others affected by cancer.
“Those at Cancer Research UK who had the privilege of working closely with him and his wonderful family encountered a talented, humble and selfless individual who was passionate about raising awareness of all forms of the disease, but particularly brain cancer.
“Jamie did a fantastic job supporting a number of our campaigns, especially Stand Up To Cancer with his powerful film which appeared on Channel 4.
“His story touched so many people, helping to raise vital funds and advance our work to find more effective and kinder treatments for the disease. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with his family at this difficult time.”