Family of Worksop man with terminal leukemia on national charity award shortlist for fundraising campaign

ExtraTime4Andy is in the running for the group fundraisers of the year category at this year’s Anthony Nolan Supporter Awards.

Their efforts have raised more than £9,000 since Andy Latham was told he had 16 months to live last year – unless a suitable stem cell donor could be found for transplant.

Son Daniel Latham said: ‘As a family we're honoured to have been nominated for this award. It’s been a pleasure for us to help the charity in anyway we can, and we look forward in continuing our fundraising in the future.”

“It has been incredible to gain such a lot from something that at first seemed to take so much away.”

He added: “We have raised funds, made friends and spread knowledge which helped to find a donor for someone else – a donor who may not have existed before dad’s ‘little problem’.

“To be nominated for the group fundraiser award is the icing on the cake, it really is an honour for us all.”

When rail engineer Andy received the myelofibrosis diagnosis in the middle of the pandemic, he could not even be beside his wife and family due to restrictions.

Despite the challenges he was left with, Andy has maintained a contagiously positive attitude and has helped to galvanise the whole family in support of Anthony Nolan.

The family’s campaign has seen them meet with political representatives and mobilise the wider community into feats of fundraising.

Henny Braund, the charity’s chief executive, said: ‘It is remarkable to see how many people support our work to find a match for those in need of a stem cell transplant. Without them, none of our life-saving work would be possible.

“Daniel, Andy and family have done a phenomenal amount in a short time and under difficult circumstances. Despite Andy’s illness, compromised immune system and Covid restrictions, they’ve done everything they can to raise money. Every penny will go toward finding a cure for blood cancer.”

Award winners are due to be announced in a digital ceremony on Thursday, February 11.

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