Dad of cancer death Leeds boy, seven, to tackle challenge for Candlelighters

David Mayman's son Joseph was diagnosed with neuroblastoma aged three in 2012.

Joseph, a pupil at Westbrook Lane Primary School, Horsforth, underwent 18 months of chemotherapy, radiotherapy and immunotherapy.

Joseph finished the treatment at Leeds Children's Hospital, but relapsed and died aged seven.

David, of Horsforth, and his family were supported by children's cancer charity Candlelighters from the time he was diagnosed and continue to to receive help.

David, an accountant, became a financial trustee to Candlelighters in November 2018 and is also vice chair of the board

On July 3, David is set to tackle a 100km non stop walk through the Peak District in a challenge he estimates will take 24 hours.

He will walk alongside work colleague Rob Charnock and Lawrence Pomeroy, head of finance and corporate services at Candlelighters.

The trio will be doing the walk during ‘Pink It Up’ week – the flagship campaign for Candlelighters, which it hopes will raise £30,000 to support their services as well as increasing awareness for children with cancer.

David said: "We wanted to push ourselves - and I think the walk will - in the hope that we could raise as much money as possible for Candlelighters.

"I know first-hand how much they help children and their families and hope this will continue to help them in providing this support."

David said his daughter Eve, nine, continues to attend a Candlelighters siblings group where she can spend time with other people who have lost loved ones.

Joseph’s mum, Sarah, said, “No matter what life threw at him, he always had a cheeky smile and infectious giggle.

"We are incredibly grateful to Candlelighters who have supported us all, both during Joseph’s treatment and after his death, in many ways, including our daughter’s stop motion animation of one of her favourite memories of Joseph”.

A Candlelighters spokesperson said: Candlelighters’ support can last a lifetime.

"The funds raised in memory of Joseph will help Candlelighters to continue their emotional, practical, and financial support for other children and families facing unimaginably difficult circumstances.

"After an incredibly difficult year for fundraising last year, the charity is hoping that people are able to support them during their Pink It Up campaign with their own fundraising or by making a donation.

"Candlelighters have been supporting families in the Yorkshire region through childhood cancer for over 40 years and will continue to be there with the support of the Yorkshire people."

So far, David, Lawrence and Rob have raised nearly £2,000 for the charity.

To support them, go to https://candlelighters.enthuse.com/pf/peaky-grinders.