Community raises £39k for cancer boy, 15
FRIENDS, family and strangers have helped raise an astonishing £39,000 in just three weeks for a popular teen diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer just before Christmas.
Owen Thomas, described as a “kind, considerate, intelligent child”, was struck down by cancer of the soft tissue, which affects as few as 60 children each year in the UK.
The 15-year-old, from Rumney, Cardiff, who is the eldest of five children, underwent his first chemotherapy treatment on Christmas Day and is now on his second round.
As previously reported, while the Welsh NHS has agreed to fund his 10-week proton beam treatment in the US, his family need to raise additional funds so they can all be at Owen’s side.
And since January 17, when the fundraising page was set up, £39,281 had been donated to the cause by yesterday afternoon.
His high school, Ysgol Bro Edern, in Penylan, organised a car wash in his honour, raising more than £3,000 – and an auction night is being held at the school next Thursday.
His mum, Jemma, said she was overwhelmed.
She said: “The response has exceeded our expectations and people’s kindness has been truly amazing. The fundraising will benefit Owen in so many ways.”
To donate, visit www. youcaring.com/owenthomas-1070467