Three years on from Ben’s passing, his family continues to help cause of young people facing cancer
It is an anniversary that will always feel crushingly sad for a family in Greenwich.
World Cancer Day coincides with the tragic death, at the age of 17, of Ben Jay, who sadly passed away in 2022 just seven months after being diagnosed with the disease.
His family has since dedicated themselves to raising significant funds for the charity, Young Lives vs Cancer, in his memory.
Ben’s story is one of courage, love and community support. His family’s tireless efforts have not only honoured his legacy, but have also provided crucial support to other young cancer patients and their families.
“Their fundraising initiatives have made a tangible difference, helping us continue our mission to ensure that no family faces cancer alone,” said a spokeswoman for Young Lives vs Cancer, which is an operating name of CLIC Sargent Cancer Care for Children.
“We believe that sharing Ben’s story would not only raise awareness about the challenges faced by young cancer patients but also inspire others to join us in our mission.”
Ben, who lived in Erindale, Plumstead, was an avid Charlton Athletic fan, and the club has created a moving video interview with Ben’s parents, which has been released today.
This video captures their journey, their dedication to raising awareness, and the impact of their contributions to the cause.
“Ben’s my hero,” says mum Sharon in the video. “He had an amazing life. A short life.
“When Ben became ill, I knew that there was something drastically wrong. I kept taking him to the hospital for 18 months and nobody was listening to me about how poorly he was.
“Never in a million years would I have thought it was cancer, but when Ben was finally diagnosed, it’s like your whole world completely falls apart.
“It’s scary, it’s the unknown. The first thing that enters your mind is: ‘Is my child going to survive?’ I kept that hope and so did Ben. I still believed that he was my miracle child and that he was going to survive. Ben dealt with cancer and he faced it. He wouldn’t let it beat him. He was so brave.”
His dad Gary reveals how the family got in touch with Charlton so Ben could meet his favourite player, Jake Forster-Caskey.
He said: “Tracey Leaburn [the club’s player liaison officer] and some other brilliant people at Charlton managed to step up and make loads of memories for him. They gave him the best last seven months of his life. Amazing memories to take with him.”
On a day he went to a game as guest of honour, he arrived in a wheelchair and feared fluid in his legs would deny him the chance to take to the pitch and wave to the crowd but his determination and sense of occasion ensured he was able to get on his feet. “He just glided out. He was in his happy place,” said his mum.
A final gathering at the club a week before he died is so poignantly conveyed.
The family has been delighted to be involved in bucket collections at the Valley stadium fundraising for Young Lives vs Cancer – to help families that might have financial burden associated with caring for their child or need accommodation and help with benefits.
The video can been seen HERE
Pictured top: Ben Jay (Picture: Charlton Athletic FC/Jay Family)