A teenage cancer survivor from Burnham-On-Sea is inviting local people to back a campaign to support the charity that helped him through it.
Zenon Panteli, 15, hopes to raise awareness and funds for CLIC Sargent, the cancer charity that supports children and young people.
He was diagnosed with Hodgkin Lymphoma last March, having suffered high blood pressure, nose bleeds and headaches.
During his treatment, the brave teenager and his family have received support from a CLIC Sargent social worker who provide financial, emotional and practical support to young people with cancer.
The family also stayed at one of the charities ‘Home from Homes’ in Bristol where families can stay for free during treatment when Zenon was transferred to a hospital there.
He said: “When I was diagnosed with cancer it was a huge shock. My CLIC Sargent social worker Linda has been a massive help, she is so nice and supportive.”
“She has also arranged fun events for me to go on like a flying experience day which was amazing.”
“I’m really proud to wear my World Cancer Day band because CLIC Sargent made such a difference to me and my family.”
“Buying a band and shouting about this campaign is such an easy way to make sure you can help other families. I hope everyone in Burnham-On-Sea gets behind this.”
Mairi Wilson, Fundraising Manager at CLIC Sargent, added: “Today, 11 children and young people in the UK will hear the shocking news that they have cancer. When cancer strikes young lives we fight tirelessly to provide the financial, emotional and practical support they need.”
“This World Cancer Day, we want everyone to ‘band together’ behind children and young people like Zenon by donating, wearing a Unity Band and spreading the word. These simple acts will help more young people thrive not just survive after their cancer diagnosis.”
Thankfully Zenon’s treatment which finished in August was a success and he’s now back at school.
The family are keen to give something back by backing the charity’s World Cancer Day campaign and will be wearing Unity Bands to show their support and unity for those affected by cancer. You can buy a unity band for a suggested donation of £2 from Wetherspoons pubs, including the Reeds Arms, and Wallis stores.
You can also buy them online at www.clicsargent.org.uk/WorldCancerDay for £2.
