A collection will take place at Good Friday’s game against Forest Green Rovers as the Club looks to do its bit to offer support of a Bluebirds fan and his inspirational daughter.
Madison was just 16 when she was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, an aggressive form of blood cancer. Following months of severe pain, breathlessness and intense itching, her cancer was already advanced, and she was told she was at Stage 4.
In spite of these symptoms, Madison had continued to attend Chetwynde School and achieved top grade GCSEs and was just setting out on her A-Level studies when a physiotherapist referred her for an MRI scan following back pain.
Since then, the youngster has spent six months travelling to and from Manchester, having intense chemotherapy, sometimes involving up to five days of treatment in a week.
Due to the high risk of infection, the family have had to make huge changes to their lifestyle in order to keep her safe. Indeed, her father has had to give up coming to Barrow matches where there are lots of people, particularly with COVID-19 still a worry.
“When we heard what the family are going through, we wanted to do something to try and help,” explained Bluebirds General Manager, Alisha Henry.
“The way Madison has dealt with everything thrown at her during this difficult time has been nothing short of incredible and we were keen to show our support for her.”
We’ve linked up with Hawcoat Park Under-8s and Under-10s who will be in attendance on Good Friday to carry out the collection, with donations going to The Christie Charity Fund, as chosen by Madison herself.
Madison is treated in the Teenage and Young Adult Unit at the Christie in Manchester due to her age, and they have provided exceptional support since her very first appointment.
They are a vital lifeline for teenage cancer patients, who have a unique set of needs, delivering guidance around diagnosis to delivering treatment and advice.
“Having cancer treatment as a teenager, so far away from home, is not an easy experience,” explained Madison’.
“But the care and attention we have had from the TYA at the Christie has been incredible and we are keen to support them in their work with Madison and other young people who find themselves in the worst situation imaginable.”
Look out for the collectors on your way into The Dunes Hotel Stadium on Good Friday and please give what you can for this worthy cause.
Click here for more information about The Christie Charity and to make a donation online.