Real fighting talk from Alex...
ALEX Grant came out fighting when she decided to raise money for the hospital which has supported her dad through his long battle with cancer.
Alex signed up for a university ‘fight night’ earlier this year while studying at Newcastle University to raise money for Weston Park Cancer Charity and raised £3,724.
Now back home in Crane Moor having graduated this summer, Alex has been nominated in the Charity Fundraiser category in the Proud of Barnsley awards.
Alex, who will be 21 on Sunday, had never set foot in a boxing ring but after her dad Mark, 56, was diagnosed with cancer for a third time, she threw herself into training for the bout and spreading the word about the fundraising.
“It became a lot bigger than expected as I only had six weeks to raise the money. I originally wanted to set a target of £300 but my Dad persuaded me to make it £500 but I think Weston Park has touched a lot of people’s lives and the donations kept coming in.”
Alex’s old school friends, friends of her parents and ex-colleagues of former Coldstream Guard Mark were amongst those who donated.
“I lost on points and was gutted it was so close but the night itself was amazing. I had 40 people there supporting me including my mum and dad and little brother. I got a phone call on the day from Weston Park wishing me luck and I went into the ring wearing my Weston Park tee-shirt which meant a lot.
“I haven’t continued my boxing training I can’t explain how hard it was but I will be forever grateful for the experience.”
Alex did her training at Barnsley Star boxing gym with friend and amateur boxer Elliot Bridges.
“It really did make me a better, stronger person and it meant a lot to my dad too. He’s still undergoing treatment but is doing OK and getting on with his life,” said Alex of Mount Pleasant Court, Crane Moor.
“My Dad and I were invited along to Cavendish House which helps people living with cancer it’s a support system and we presented the cheque which was really special too we felt like little celebrities.
“It has been a great experience all round.”