THE FAMILY of a Liss teenager with leukaemia have raised more than £10,000 for a charity which helps children and young people with similar conditions.
Ben Dawes has definitely gone the extra mile to help CLIC Sargent as his fundraising feats have included a fun run and a sponsored climb of Snowdon.
He is determined to repay the good cause for the support they’ve shown his family and 18-year-old brother Peter, who was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia in April.
The “strong-willed” and rugby-loving teen is determined to “kick the disease into the long grass” but his best chance of survival is a bone marrow transplant.
CLIC Sargent have supported the family by offering them accommodation while Peter undergoes treatment at Southampton General Hospital.
The family have raised £10,905 in return thanks to fundraising events at Liss Athletic Football Club and generous donations from the likes of Wilmott Dixon Construction. They are now in training for the Great South Run.
Ben said: “CLIC Sargent have been amazing ever since they first came to see us.
“They’ve provided my family with a room in Southampton if we ever need to stay closer to Peter but they’ve also given Peter advice on his academic studies.
“They really are a great charity and one that will remain close to my heart. With friends and family, I am looking forward to the next challenge and the Great South Run.”
Liz Blunt, CLIC Sargent’s fundraising engagement manager, said: “We are really grateful to Ben and his family for their wonderful support in raising the staggering amount.”