Powerful cancer awareness moment set for Bucks’ final home game
A community initiative to raise awareness about cancer is set to take place this Saturday, 18 April, linking football fans and the region's primary cancer charity.
AFC Telford United will host the powerful cancer awareness moment at their final home game of the season against Darlington. The team will walk onto the pitch accompanied by current cancer patients and those living beyond.
The crowd will be urged to 'stand up if you hate cancer' and take part in a minute of applause, recognising the impact of cancer and showing collective support for those affected.
Fundraisers from Lingen Davies Cancer Support will also be in attendance collecting for the £5million Sunflower Appeal to develop cancer services at Telford's Princess Royal Hospital.
Pete Jackson, a trustee of the charity, and cancer survivor, is helping to organise the event.
He said: "With both teams pushing for the playoffs, the fixture is set to draw a strong crowd to the New Bucks Head. Ahead of kick-off, the focus will turn briefly from football to the community, as a group of supporters affected by cancer take to the pitch alongside the players.
"I will be walking out onto the pitch with friends and supporters - all of whom have their own experience of cancer. We will walk out with the teams and stand on the halfway line, representing families, friends and communities across Telford and beyond.
“Cancer touches so many lives. This is about bringing people together in a positive way—recognising that shared experience and showing that no one faces it alone. Football clubs like Telford are at their best when they reflect their community, and this is a chance to do just that.”
Claire Purcell, head of community fundraising for Lingen Davies, said thanks to Pete for his inspirational idea to ask survivors to take part in this event.
"The cancer awareness moment will deliver a powerful message, cancer touches everyone's lives. We all know someone who has been impacted, and as a charity we exist to make life better for those living with and beyond in Telford, Shropshire and into Mid Wales.
"I am very much looking forward to attending the game, meeting the fans, watching the walk-out, and highlighting the work of Lingen Davies.
Supporters are encouraged to arrive early and take part in what promises to be a powerful and unifying moment ahead of kick-off.
Pete Jackson is also running the London Marathon on Sunday, 26 April, to support cancer patients. He has even written a book reflecting on his mouth cancer diagnosis and recovery. You can support Pete and his marathon fundraising via JustGiving.
