TWO high school students whose relative was told he has 18 months to live have pulled on their classmates’ support to help get him treatment abroad.
Last week, the Star reported how Dylan Bearns, 39, from Parr, was told in May that he has a grade 4 astrocytoma, a brain tumour which he has been told without further treatment – not available on the NHS – he will not survive longer than 18 months.
Treatment in Germany costs £53,000 and fundraising efforts are in place to try to raise that amou7nt as soon as possible for him to undergo treatment.
The story has touched any hearts of the community, including those of Dylan’s nephew Connor Bearns and his cousin Archie Cooper, both Year 9 Sutton Academy students.
The 14-year-olds set themselves the task of raising as much as they could, and with their principle’s support, rallied classmates into a football match, bake sale and raffle to win a signed Saints rugby ball – all of which raised £500.
A further £250 from previous fundraising efforts at the school, means the pair have now raised £750 towards the cause.
Speaking to the Star, Archie and Connor said: “When we found out it was shocking and he’s family, you do what you can to help family.
“School have been good supporting us; students wouldn’t give money really to something like this, but if they are taking part in a football match against other year 9s and getting cakes they are happy to pay some money for stuff and it all goes to help.
“We are made up because we got £500 and then money raised from a previous fundraiser left over has been gifted by the school as well.
“Thanks everyone who helped.”
Archie is also undertaking the challenge of running 5k every day for 39 days – to signify that Dylan is 39-years-old – in a further bid to raise as much as possible.
READ: Treatment abroad plea for man with 18 months to live due to tumour
Archie, from Clock Face, added: “Connor will take part on some of them too but yes, I’m starting tomorrow, July 21, and anyone who wants to sponsor me can donate straight to Dylan’s fundraising page.”
To donate, go to justgiving.com/crowdfunding/emma-redfern
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