Chae Jenkins played tighthead prop for the Colts first team and ran out at Twickenham with the Cornwall under 20s, before he was diagnosed with a rare inoperable pilocytic astrocytoma in January 2021, six months after extensive surgery to lengthen his right leg.
He was given six weeks of combined radio and chemotherapy treatment followed by six months of gruelling chemotherapy. Chae now relies on the full-time care of his mother, Maggie, and is left with limited mobility and sight problems.
After having to give up his dream of playing rugby professionally, Chae – who celebrated his 23rd birthday yesterday – has organised a charity rugby match, taking place today at 11am.
Teams Chae XV and Launceston will take to the pitch to help raise vital funds to find a cure for brain tumours. Amongst the players will be Chae’s younger brother, Tage, in his first match since 2021 after injury. Also supporting will be Northampton Saints prop, Alfie Petch, who grew up with Chae; Cornish Pirates forward Cory Teague; and England Rugby journalist, Alfie Martin.
Players will sport a special yellow and black kit designed by Chae, and there will also be a raffle to win signed England Rugby memorabilia. It is hoped that the match will become an annual fundraiser.
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