A Manchester man is coming out fighting to help find a cure by taking on a white collar MMA boxing challenge inspired by his friend who is living with a brain tumour.
James Gaskell (pictured below) has undergone eight weeks of intensive training ahead of stepping into the ring for his charity bout in Manchester on 30th November.
His motive is to raise funds for us in support of Neil Taylor, who was thankful to be celebrating his 40th birthday earlier in November.
Neil (pictured above with his family) was diagnosed with a grade 3 astrocytoma in February 2017 after suffering a seizure, just months after marrying Alex and weeks after Alex learnt she was expecting their first child. Neil underwent surgery, followed by radiotherapy and a year of chemotherapy treatment.
A few months after completing treatment, Neil set up Fundraising Group Neil’s Appeal to help support vital research into finding more effective treatments and ultimately a cure for brain tumours.
Now dad to Annabelle and Harvey, Neil said: “Doctors told me seven years ago that my brain cancer was incurable and I had five to 10 years at best. Every birthday is a cause for celebration, but this year, turning 40 was particularly special, knowing that brain tumours kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer.
“Since I set up Neil’s Appeal in 2018, it’s been so heartwarming that friends and family have helped me raise close to £42,000. I am so grateful to everyone and especially James for leading with his chin!”
You can donate to James’ JustGiving page here or donate direct to Neil’s Appeal.
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Published Thursday 28th November