Charlton Athletic supporters raise £1.4K in memory of young fan

A football club’s supporters came together on Saturday to raise money for a cancer charity in memory of a young fan who died last year.

The money was raised in memory of Charlton fan, Ben Jay, who sadly died in February 2022, aged just 17.

Ben’s family and friends held a bucket collection outside the Charlton Athletic FC stadium, The Valley in Leverose Way, Charlton, before their home game against Wycombe Wanderers. 

The group raised more than £1,400 for the Young Lives vs Cancer charity that helped support Ben and his family throughout his illness.

Sharon Jay, Ben’s mum said: “Our son was a huge Charlton fan that followed games home and away with his friends. 

“I would like to take the opportunity to thank Charlton FC especially Tracey Leaburn, as well as all the Charlton fans for the love and support they showed our Ben whilst fighting cancer. 

“Ben had the most amazing seven months a young boy could ask for. 

“Ben’s dream to walk on the pitch alongside the players was fulfilled, to have his name shouted from the stands but most of all the applause by  fans and players was truly an amazing memory for us as Ben’s parents that will forever stay in our hearts we will always and forever be grateful.”

In 2020, Ben became unwell. After multiple trips to the GP and A&E over the course of 18 months, he and his parents were told his symptoms were the cause of a long-term health condition Ben was living with.

However, after being rushed into hospital in July 2021, Ben and his family were given the devastating news that Ben had hepatocellular carcinoma, a very rare type of liver cancer.

Just one month later, Ben had his first round of chemotherapy, followed by a further six rounds over the next few months. 

In November 2021, the family were told the chemotherapy wasn’t working and Ben would be moved to a palliative care plan. 

Just seven months after receiving his cancer diagnosis, Ben passed away in February this year.

Alex Drury, Young Lives vs Cancer senior fundraising engagement manager for South London and Kent said: “When cancer strikes young lives we step in to help families find the strength to face everything cancer throws at them. 

“It was an electric atmosphere on the day and we are so grateful to Ben’s family and friends for collecting, and to everyone who donated.

“This money will have a huge impact on our work, ensuring we can continue to help children and young people with cancer and their families during the toughest of times.”

To donate to Ben’s fund visit: https://funds.younglivesvscancer.org.uk/BenJayButterflyFund

Pictured top: Ben, front middle, with the Charlton football team (Picture: Young Lives vs Cancer)